CHEMICAL MAKEUP OF WATER RESOURCES IN THE CENTRAL NIGERIA REGION

 CHEMICAL MAKEUP OF WATER RESOURCES IN THE CENTRAL NIGERIA REGION

Abstract:

This research endeavor focuses on the comprehensive assessment of the chemical composition of both surface and groundwater within a specific geographic region of Gwagwalada town. The study area spans from longitude 7°03’00”E to 7°06’00”E and latitude 8°05’60”N to 8°05’70”N. Geological investigations were conducted utilizing a topographic map scaled at 1:25,000, derived from the Abuja Topo Map (sheet 207 Kuje NW). Geological mapping employed the traverse method, aided by a Compass Clinometer and Global Positioning System (GPS) for precise data collection. A total of twenty-seven (27) water samples were systematically collected from wells, boreholes, and rivers across the entire study area.

In-situ measurements encompassed key physical parameters such as Temperature, pH, Conductivity, Turbidity, and Salinity. Laboratory analyses involved various methods including turbidimetry, phenanthroline, Flame Photometry, Argentometric, and Cadmium Reduction techniques. The data interpretation process involved the utilization of Microsoft Excel for graphical representation, Surfer 8 for contour mapping, and Piper and Stiff plots for hydrochemical assessments.

The geological foundation of the area primarily comprises granite Gneiss Rock. The analysis yielded mean values of 30.95°C for Temperature, 797.29 µS/cm for Conductivity, 5.46 mg/l for Dissolved Oxygen, 515.9 mg/l for Salinity, and 8.68 NTU for Turbidity. The predominant chemical constituents were Chloride and Calcium ions, with mean concentrations of 123.22 mg/l and 49.15 mg/l, respectively.

Hydrochemical analysis revealed that the water in the study area can be classified as Calcium Magnesium Sulphate Chloride Water, based on the Piper plot interpretation. Additionally, the Stiff plot indicated that the water belongs to Group I, characterized by primary cations of Calcium and Magnesium and primary anions of Chloride, Sulphate, and Bicarbonates.

Furthermore, the concentrations of water samples obtained from boreholes were found to be in compliance with the Nigerian Quality Standard for Drinking Water (NIS 554:2007), falling within acceptable limits. This study contributes valuable insights into the chemical composition of the region’s water sources, providing crucial information for environmental and public health considerations.

 CHEMICAL MAKEUP OF WATER RESOURCES IN THE CENTRAL NIGERIA REGION, GET MORE, ACTUARIAL SCIENCE PROJECT TOPICS AND MATERIALSr

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