Hydrogeochemical studies of groundwater in semi-arid areas of northern Ethiopia using geospatial methods and multivariate statistical analysis techniques

Abstract The present study focused on evaluating the groundwater hydrogeochemical of shallow aquifers in semi-arid areas northern Ethiopia, using geospatial modelling and multivariate statistical techniques. Physico-chemical parameters, including pH, major ions, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), hardness (TH), pollution index (PI) other from 22 samples have been used to assess water quality, sources various types factors controlling chemistry. Results showed that spatial distribution EC, TDS, TH PI values these significantly differ one location another due geological variations anthropogenic activities area. quality most is generally unfit for drinking their PI, TH, calcium, potassium, iron bicarbonate (HCO 3 − ) found be above permissible limits WHO Ethiopian standards. parameters like sodium percentage, adsorption ratio (SAR), residual bicarbonate, permeability index, magnesium hazard Kelly’s revealed good irrigation utilization, whereas EC (ECiw), combined effects ECiw SAR indicated majority are not suitable use. Piper trilinear diagram classified under temporary with Ca–Mg–HCO type. Further, Gibbs reveals water–rock interaction processes governing chemistry Therefore, it recommended perform a constant checking program improvement tangible management practices sustainable utilization resou rces.