Which two common pieces of equipment are used for purging a well?

The correct choice identifies that a bailer and a vacuum pump are commonly used for purging a well.

A bailer is a traditional method employed to remove water from a well. It is a simple device consisting of a hollow tube with a one-way valve at the bottom; when lowered into the well and then pulled back up, it brings water along with it for sampling or removal. This method is effective for purging stagnant water and allows for a relatively easy collection of groundwater samples.

On the other hand, a vacuum pump operates by creating negative pressure to draw water out of the well. This method is particularly useful in removing larger volumes of water efficiently and can be used in conjunction with a monitoring system to keep track of water levels. This equipment is favored for its ability to quickly purge the well of unwanted water, making it a reliable choice for professionals dealing with groundwater sampling and monitoring.

In contrast, while a bicycle pump and a hand auger are useful tools in specific contexts, they do not serve the purpose of purging a well. A hand pump may be used in some situations, but it isn’t as widely recognized specifically for purging as the bailer and vacuum pump combination.