Geoelectric Investigation of the Aquifer Characteristics and Groundwater Potential in Behbahan Azad University Farm, Khuzestan Province, Iran

In total 12 vertical electrical soundings, using Schlumberger configuration, were carried out in Behbahan Azad University Farm, South Western Iran, in order to investigate the aquifer characteristics and groundwater potential of the subsurface layers. The field data was interpreted using the Russian software IPI7.63. The depth and resistivity of the subsurface layers were determined. Also, the isoapparent resistivity maps, the geoelectrical psedosections, the geoelectric sections, the isothickness map of aquifer and the isotransverse resistance map of aquifer is drawn. The results of the interpretation of the VES data reveal the presence of the following geoelectric layers: (1) near-surface layers and dry alluvium with resistivity ranging from 1 to 15000 Ωm and thickness ranging from 16 to 23 m. (2) The second layer, which constitutes the aquifer of study area, has resistivity varying from 0.3 to 6.4 Ωm while the thickness varies from 6.9-10.7 m. It is composed of fine-grained sand. (3) The third layer, which constitutes Marly bedrock, characterized by electrical resistivity value varying from 6.8 to 37 Ωm in most parts of area and with depth ranges from 23.8 to 33 m. The resistivity value of this layer in two sounding is 120 and 131 Ωm. This is probably caused by existing Marly Limestone in these soundings. (4) The forth geoelectric layer, has resistivity values ranging from 0.4-4 Ωm. This layer corresponds probably to Shaly layer or confined aquifer. Also, the relationship between transverse resistance and aquifer transmissivity is used to determine zones with high yield potential and the best location for drilling wells in the area.