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Letter HGeology glossary

Hydrostatic Pressure

Hydrostatic pressure is the pressure exerted by a fluid at equilibrium due to the force of gravity. In geological contexts, it plays a crucial role in fluid dynamics, groundwater flow, and the behavior of subsurface fluids. Hydrostatic pressure is a key concept in hydrology, petroleum geology, and understanding fluid behavior in porous media.

Water tank diagram with outlet pipes (hydrostatic pressure)
Fig. 1 Water tank diagram with outlet pipes (hydrostatic pressure)

Source Bear, J. (1972). Dynamics of Fluids in Porous Media. Dover Publications.

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