A Civil Action - The Woburn Toxic Trial > Resources for Educators > 4 - Groundwater Flow > Constructing Potentiometric Surfaces

# Constructing Potentiometric Surfaces - Wells G & H Superfund Site, Woburn, MA

E. Scott Bair (Ohio State University) and Terry Lahm (Capital University)

## Summary

Students use well head measurements from the area surrounding wells G and H to construct potentiometric surfaces and groundwater flow. The exercise involves extrapolating between data points to draw the equipotential lines. Students are also asked to answer a set of questions about the process and the meaning of the results.

## Learning Goals

- Learn how to draw a potentiometric map based on well head data.
- Interpret the groundwater flow patterns based on well head data and potentiometric maps.

## Context for Use

This activity was developed for an introductory level, mock-trial class centered around the Woburn, MA pollution trial. It is also appropriate for an introductory level structural geology or groundwater hydrology class.

## Teaching Notes and Tips

## Teaching Materials

- Potentiometric Surfaces Introduction and Activity (Microsoft Word 616kB Jul14 06)
- Well Head Maps (Excel 140kB Jun22 06)
- Potentiometric Surfaces Questions (Microsoft Word 45kB Jun22 06)

## Assessment

Students construct two potentiometric maps which are handed in assessment. They also complete a question set asking them to interpret the meaning of elements of the map and draw conclusions.

## References and Resources

Chute, N.E. (1959) . Glacial geology of the Mystic Lakes-Fresh Pond area, Massachusetts. U. S. Geological Survey Bulletin 8755-531X; B 1061-F, 187-216.