What role do non-porous rock fractures play in groundwater?

Non-porous rock fractures can create pathways for groundwater movement by forming crevices within the rock. Although the rock itself may be non-porous, fractures can develop as a result of stress within the geological structures, leading to openings that can hold water. These crevices offer essential space where water can accumulate, enhancing the ability of the rock to store groundwater, even if the surrounding material does not possess the porosity typically associated with water storage. Consequently, fractures serve as conduits through which groundwater can travel, effectively increasing the overall storage capacity within and around these rock formations. This understanding is crucial, especially in hydrogeology, where recognizing different types of rock and their fracture systems helps in water resource management and assessing aquifer characteristics.