Abstract

Groundwater is a vital resource that sustains natural environments and built landscapes. The chemical interactions that take place within this resource play a role in its chemical identity and its capability as a drinking water source. Nine spring sites in northeastern Ohio were sampled and analyzed for the major ionic constituents found in groundwater (Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, Cl-, SO42-, HCO3-, CO32-). Water samples were classified by ionic species dominance and select constituent weight ratios (Na+/Ca2+ and Cl-/HCO3-) to determine the main mechanisms that explained their chemistry. Conceptual geologic cross section models were developed to illustrate groundwater pathways in aquifers for each spring. Sites were characterized as neutral freshwaters, with hydrochemical facies of Ca-HCO3 type, Ca-Cl type, Na-Cl type, in order of abundance, and were revealed to be dependent on water-rock interactions for their chemical profiles. Sample classifications of Ca-HCO3 type were typical of waters within the sampled region of the Appalachian Plateaus province, but deviations from this water type proved to be evidence of sensitivity to land-surface activities. Cross section illustrations and geochemistry results revealed groundwater pathways through locally recharged, unconsolidated aquifers (sand, gravel, clay) or fractured bedrock aquifers (sandstone, shale). Majority of the sites (excluding S8) fell within the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s primary and secondary standards for safe drinking water.

Advisor

Wiles, Greg

Department

Earth Sciences

Disciplines

Environmental Chemistry | Geochemistry | Geology | Hydrology

Keywords

geochemistry, groundwater, cross section, spring, ohio

Publication Date

2026

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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© Copyright 2026 Chanel ML Harris