Abstract: As part of a cooperative study with the Geologic Division of the U.S. Geological Survey, water samples collected from geothermal power production wells at Cerro Prieto, Mexico, were analyzed for selected elements by d.c. argon plasma emission spectroscopy. Spectral interferences due to the presence of high concentrations of Ca, Si, Na, and K in these waters affected the apparent concentration values obtained. These effects were evaluated and correction techniques were developed and applied to the analytical values. Precipitates present in the samples at the time of analysis adversely affected the accuracy, precision and interpretability of the data.

From abstract: The Hueco Bolson provides a substantial part of the municipal and industrial water supply of the El Paso area of Texas, New Mexico and Mexico. Although the supply of fresh ground water in the bolson is large, about 10.6 million acre-feet (13,070 hm^3) in 1973 in the Texas part of the bolson alone, the supply is being depleted.