Soil salinity is a phenomenon that reduce fertility, directly impacting the environment and society. In Iraq, Basrah governorate, salinity is a pressing challenge due to its hot desert climate, where summer temperature’s exceed 50° C. Integrating geographic information system (GIS) and remote sensing (RS), researchers can identify high-risk area, monitor temporal changes in salinity, and develop predictive models for agriculture planning and water resource management. Literature review shows that these systems are effective for analyzing salinity in Basrah, providing spatial and temporal understanding that support data-based reclamation plans. However, research gaps remain. Most studies lack temporal updating, relying on satellite data prior to 2015, leaving no updated picture of recent changes despite available high-resolution data. In addition, most focus solely on electrical conductivity (EC) as an indicator, without linking it to the soil's chemical and physical properties. There are no clear attempts to build spatial and temporal predictive models using artificial intelligence or geospatial modeling. Furthermore, the relationship between salinity and hydrological and climatic factors such as groundwater depth, irrigation water quality and evaporation has not been systematically addressed. Research must therefore be intensified, as salinity has long plagued the region and solutions are needed to prevent further exacerbation.
The present study investigates the influence of a static magnetic field on the physicochemical properties of piped tap water in Basrah province, southern Iraq. Water was exposed to a permeant neodymium magnet producing an approximately 0.2 tesla field oriented perpendicular to the flow. Exposure durations were instant 5, 10, 15, 60 and 120 minutes, and the distance from the magnetic source was varied (25-100 cm). Parameters including pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (Ec), dissolved oxygen (DO), total hardness, total alkalinity and temperature were measured in accordance with APHA standards methods. Results were compared against the world health origination (WHO) guidelines for drinking water quality (2017). Overall, pH remained within the preferred WHO range (6.5-8.5). Electrical conductivity (Ec) and total dissolved solids (TDS) decreased over time, indicating reduced mineral impurities. Total hardness and alkalinity decreased after prolonged exposure, supporting the effectiveness of this technology in reducing scale deposits in pipes. Water temperature decreased from 35°C to 22-26°C over time, indicating greater physical stability. The findings suggest that the magnetic treatment can be considered a supportive, non-chemical option to enhance selected water quality indicators in Basrah province.