Geology - What is the history that has led to our current

Geology Question

As you research groundwater as your topic, I would like you to consider the following questions: 

1) What is the history that has led to our current understanding of the topic you are researching?

2) Who are the main players involved in this research? 

-In other words, who were the scientists involved in the discovery / major advancements in the history and evolution of the subject (if your topic has any)?

3) What are the major processes (physical and / or chemical) involved in your topic?

4) How does your topic affect our world, today?  

-If you are researching a subject involved with deep time, how does it influence our thinking and understanding of our place on this planet, today?

-If you choose energy and mineral resources, what are their environmental and economic impacts?