Wells are structures or holes that are dug into the ground to access water stored beneath the Earth's surface. This water is known as groundwater. Groundwater is one of the planet's most important natural resources, serving as a critical source of drinking water for many people around the world.
Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how wells work and how they are fed by groundwater:
Rainwater Infiltration : When it rains, the water doesn’t just flow over the land and into rivers or lakes; a portion of it seeps into the soil. This process is called infiltration.
Percolation through Soil and Rock : As water moves downward through the soil and porous rock, it continues to filter down until it reaches a layer of rock that is not porous. This rock layer is called an aquifer, and it is here that groundwater is stored and held.
Pressure and Water Table : Groundwater is under pressure and is often found at a certain level, known as the water table. The water table level rises and falls depending on the amount of rainfall, the season, and other environmental factors.
Accessing Groundwater through Wells : Wells are drilled down into these aquifers to access the groundwater. The water is then pumped up to the surface for various uses including drinking, irrigation, and industrial purposes.
To answer your multiple-choice question, the correct answer is (d) ground water.