Hydro-Geochemical Characteristics of Groundwater Beneath the Gaza Strip

Abstract

The main objective of the current research is to investigate the deterioration of groundwater quality due to the over-pumping in the coastal area of the Gaza Strip. One hundred and two (102) samples from 44 municipal water wells in the Gaza Strip were collected and analyzed for major cations like, Ca2+ and Mg2+ by Titration, Na+ and K+ by Flame photometer; anions like, Cl- and HCO3- by Titration, NO3- by spectrophotometer and SO42- by turbidity meter. The groundwater in the region mainly consists of NaCl, CaHCO3-and NaHCO3-. The saline load of groundwater is in first place controlled by chloride, sodium and calcium concentrations. The spatial changes of ionic ratios of rCa2+/(rHCO3- +? rSO42-) and the relationship between sodium and chloride in the coastal area indicate that the aquifer experienced sea-water intrusion.