Evaluation of the hydro geochemistry of groundwater using factor analysis in the Cuddalore coastal region, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

The hydrochemical facies and its aerial distribution of groundwater present in the coastal region of the Cuddalore region, Tamilnadu had been examined as a part to map their aerial hydrochemical distribution and attempts to explain the geochemical processes controlling its water quality/facies. In the study area aquifers occur in Quaternary deposit. Ten major ions (Ca⁺, Mg⁺⁺, Na⁺, K⁺, Cl⁻, HCO₃²⁻, H₄SIO₄, F⁻, SO₄ and NO₃⁻) were determined for each of 54 water samples collected in two seasons (pre and post monsoon ). The factor analysis was performed for pre- monsoon and post-monsoon data set. This gives an insight into the source of dissolved ions and the hydro geochemical chemical processes which are responsible for the water quality changes that are occurring here including the intrusion of seawater. The present study elucidates the effectiveness of factor analysis in evaluating hydrochemical processes occurring in the coastal regions which are dominated by agriculture and industrial zones.