What characteristic of hydraulic conductivity would be expected in an eolian sand aquifer?

Prepare for the Fundamentals of Geology Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes hints and detailed explanations. Get ready to ace your geology test!

In an eolian sand aquifer, the characteristic of hydraulic conductivity is expected to be uniform. Eolian sands are typically well-sorted and composed mostly of fine to medium-sized grains that have been deposited by wind action. This uniformity in grain size results in consistent pore spaces throughout the sediment, allowing water to flow through the material at a relatively steady rate.

Additionally, the interconnecting nature of the sand particles contributes to a stable flow regime, where hydraulic conductivity does not significantly fluctuate across different areas of the aquifer. This contrasts with materials that might contain a mixture of grain sizes or poorly sorted sediments, where hydraulic conductivity can be highly variable due to the presence of different pore sizes.

Uniform hydraulic conductivity in such aquifers facilitates predictable water movement and is important for effective groundwater management and understanding the aquifer's behavior in response to extraction or changes in recharge.

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