What is a borehole?

A borehole is a narrow shaft drilled into the ground in order to extract water, gas, oil, or mineral resources. Boreholes can range in diameter from a few inches to several feet, and can be drilled to a depth of several thousand feet. The drilling process involves the use of a drilling rig, which can be operated manually or powered by hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric systems. Once the borehole is drilled, a casing is installed to protect the well and prevent contamination of the groundwater. Boreholes are commonly used in domestic, agricultural, and industrial settings to provide a reliable source of water or for geothermal heating and cooling systems. They can also be used in geological and environmental investigations to collect soil and rock samples or monitor groundwater levels and quality. Regular maintenance and testing is required to ensure the borehole remains safe and functional.