Geophysical Study of the Sedimentary Cover in Darb El-Arbeen, South Western Desert, Egypt

A Bouguer gravity anomaly map and eight Vertical Electrical Sounding profiles in an area 23o 30’ – 23o 50’ latitude and 30o 00 ’ – 30o 40 ’ E longitude in the southern Western Desert of Egypt were used to determine the thickness of sedimentary cover containing the main water rich sandstone formation. The predominant structures affecting the basement rock and sedimentary cover were also studied. Resistivity surveys are routinely employed in groundwater exploration to locate zones of relatively high conductivity corresponding to water-saturated strata at depths to about 400 m, as well as provide structural and lithological information. Measurements of electric resistivity were carried out on a selected profile that was surveyed previously by a gravity method. The geoelectric cross-section and gravity profiles showed the thickness of the sedimentary rocks increases towards the east and the basement surface is characterized by the presence of two highs and lows. The major uplift of the basement surface recorded in the west of the section bounded by a normal fault results in the ground water aquifer being near the surface. The Darb El-Arbeen area is characterized by the presence of a huge amount of groundwater. Accordingly, this area must take priority in programs for the sustainable development of groundwater in southern Egypt