A body of permeable rock or sediment that is saturated with water and yields useful amounts of water.

A chemical substance capable of destroying some life forms. In hydraulic fracturing, biocides are used to inhibit growth of bacteria and mold.

A rock composed primarily of carbonate minerals (minerals containing the CO3 anionic structure, such as calcite). Common carbonate rocks are limestones and dolomites.

The hard metal or plastic pipe that lines the well, prevents a borehole from caving in, and provides a barrier to the outside rock and groundwater.

A chemical compound with one or more chlorine atoms bonded within the molecule; a salt of hydrochloric acid. Table salt is sodium chloride (NaCl).

A fracture or fracture zone along which rock layers have moved.

A geologic term to describe a rock texture, referring to its mineral or rock fragment components.

A basic unit of rock layers distinctive enough in appearance, composition, and age to be defined in geologic maps and classifications.

The fracturing fluid that returns to the surface through the wellbore during and after a hydraulic treatment.

A crack or break in the rock.