USGS scientist analyzing a ground-water sample from borehole USW UZ-14 in a portable laboratory
(Photo by USGS)

Geochemistry is used to understand the present-day geologic, hydrologic, and geochemical environments and processes at Yucca Mountain, how these have changed in the past, and how they might change in the future. Geochemical studies have provided information about:

• Chemical and isotopic compositions
• Secondary minerals in fractures and cavities
• Dust composition in tunnels
• Fluid inclusions
• Thermal history

• Chemical and isotopic compositions of pore water and perched water
• Infiltration rates and distribution
• Matrix and fault flow paths
• Seepage
• Water-rock interaction
• Ages and sources of gas and water

• Chemical and isotopic compositions of ground water
• Ground-water flow paths
• Ground-water transport rates
• Aquifer properties
• Ages and sources of ground water

U.S. Department of the Interior U.S. Geological Survey
URL: http://www.usgs.gov/default.asp
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