Hydrogeology of the Karst Regions in Hungary

The Hungarian karstHungarian karst regions with diverse geologic settings and hydrogeologic characteristics are presented and discussed in a basin-scale groundwater flow framework which is the adaptation of groundwater flow systemsGroundwater flow systems to carbonate regions and, thus, a novel approach in karst hydrogeologyHydrogeology studies. Accordingly, a solid but comprehensive overview of the hydrogeologic environmentHydrogeologic environment (topography, climate, and geology), groundwater flow patterns and processes (flow systems and directions, hydrochemistry and temperatureTemperature conditions), groundwater-related phenomena (springs and caves), and groundwater resources (direct and indirect use) is provided for the Aggtelek KarstAggtelek Karst, Bükk MtsBükk Mountains., SW and NE Transdanubian Mts.,NE Transdanubian Mountains Mecsek MtsMecsek Mountains., and VillányVillány Mts. By the application of this concept, the asymmetric flow patternsAsymmetric flow pattern, distribution of cold, lukewarm and thermal springsThermal spring, heat accumulation and heat transportHeat transport processes, mixing of meteoric and basinal and waters of local, intermediate and regional groundwater flow systemsGroundwater flow systems and potential locations of epigene and hypogene speleogenesisSpeleogenesis can be revealed and explained. The Hungarian karstHungarian karst areas reflect different properties but there are similarities regarding their hydrogeologic environmentHydrogeologic environment and flow systems, as well. Therefore, the local-scale karst features and peculiarities fit into a bigger, i.e., basin-scale, picture which can provide a sound base for regional hydrogeologic characterization of karstic carbonate areas.