Hydrogen and oxygen isoscapes in groundwater systems in China : a meta data analysis

Abstract

Groundwater stable isotope compositions (δ2H and δ18O) of 2776 data points in China were compiled from 118 publications to present the stable isoscapes of groundwater systems in China, which sets the benchmark for further stable isotope studies on the hydrologic partitioning of China. With ArcGIS, GetData and SPSS, the basic patterns of stable isotopes are identified. By interpretation of water isoscapes of groundwater systems in China, this thesis aims to achieve the following objectives: 1) To obtain spatial distributions of groundwater isotopes (δ2H & δ18O) in China; 2) To identify the relationship between groundwater isotopes and spatial factors; 3) Identify the groundwater zones recharged by precipitation. Groundwater isotope values decrease from coastal region to inland region. Groundwater isotope values have negative correlation to latitude and altitude but positive correlation to longitude. Multiple regression model can describe the correlation between spatial factors and isotope values well, indicating groundwater isotopic compositions subject to multiple influencing factors. These findings can be used to establish a countrywide water resource network system in the future and provide a reference for water resource management.