Which of the following statements is TRUE concerning unconfined aquifers in urbanized coastal areas?
A)The water table must be 40 feet above sea level to keep the salty water in the aquifer below sea level.
B)Any salty water in the aquifer will rise if the water table is lowered by pumping.
C)Wells drilled below sea level will produce only saline water.
D)Pumping freshwater from one, large capacity well is much less likely to cause salty water to rise in the aquifer than pumping from several, widely spaced, smaller capacity wells.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In unconfined aquifers in urbanized coastal areas, any salty water present in the aquifer will rise if the water table is lowered by pumping. This is because the pressure from the overlying freshwater is what keeps the saltwater from rising and mixing with the freshwater. When the water table is lowered, this pressure is reduced, allowing the saltwater to intrude.

Which of the Following Statements Is TRUE Concerning Unconfined Aquifers