Piezometric Surface

Top Previous Next

Definition

An imaginary or hypothetical surface of the piezometric pressure or hydraulic head throughout all or part of a confined or semi-confined aquifer; analogous to the water table of an unconfined aquifer.

Synonym

Potentiometric Surface.

Description

An imaginary surface representing the total head in an aquifer; that is it represents the height above a datum plane at which the water level stands in boreholes penetrating the aquifer.

Why is the piezometric surface important?

The piezometric surface provides an indication of the direction of groundwater flow and is used to determine hydraulic gradients.

Source: http://www.ust.smoothstone.com/groundwater_intro