What does the term "water table" refer to?

The term "water table" refers to the surface of saturated material in an aquifer. This indicates the depth beneath the earth's surface at which soil or rock is fully saturated with water. Understanding the water table is crucial for various applications, including groundwater extraction, environmental studies, and assessing the availability of water resources.

In an aquifer, the water table fluctuates based on factors such as rainfall, drought conditions, and human activities that affect groundwater levels. When the water table is above ground level, it can contribute to the formation of springs or wetlands; when it drops, it can affect water supply for ecosystems and human use.