Groundwater Quality Dynamics in a Low-Mineralized Aquifer in Southern Nigeria: Integrating Physicochemical, Correlation, and Cluster Analyses
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Groundwater of Benin, Southern Nigeria was analyzed to evaluate the water quality and suitability for drinking. Fifteen random groundwater samples were collected. The results were compared with the international standards / guidelines / thresholds. Importantly, lower pH (i.e., 4.75) indicating acidic conditions, well below the acceptable range (i.e., pH 6.5–8.5). More critically, the concentrations of Fe2+ (mean 0.57 mg/L) and Zn2+ (mean 0.17 mg/L) exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) permissible limits (i.e., Fe2+ 0.3 mg/L and Zn2+ 0.01 mg/L). Conversely, electrical conductivity (12.42 µS/cm), total dissolved solids (5.75 mg/L), chloride (13.91 mg/L), and nitrate (1.85 mg/L) were all found within the safe WHO thresholds. Cd and Pb were below the detection limits. Statistical analyses revealed significant correlations, i.e., between electrical conductivity and turbidity (r = 0.855), and total suspended solids with carbonate (r = 0.933) and nitrate (r = 0.817). Distinct groupings of parameters, as indicated in cluster analysis, suggested common geogenic and anthropogenic influences. The study may conclude that the groundwater of the study-area is not suitable for direct human consumption. Prior treatment for elevated acidity and critical contamination from Fe2+ and Zn2+ are necessary. Immediate remediation efforts are, therefore, required to safeguard public health in the study area
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