Groundwater Makes up 23% of Earth’s freshwater. 12% Shallow (we can reach) 11% Deep (out of our reach)

Underground Layers When precipitation occurs, water often seeps down into the soil and trickles down in between particles of soil and through cracks and spaces in layers of rock.

Permeable – Characteristic of a material that is full of tiny, connected air spaces that water can seep through. Impermeable – A characteristic of materials, such as clay and granite, through which water does not easily pass. Permeable layers have pores that allow water to travel through them. Impermeable layers do not allow water to travel through them.

Saturated Zone The area of permeable rock or soil that is totally filled with water.

Water Table The top of the saturated zone. Knowing the depth of the water table tells you how deep you must dig to reach the groundwater.

Aquifer When water reaches an impermeable layer, it is trapped and cannot go any further. This becomes drinkable well or spring water.

Aquifer An underground layer of rock or sediment that holds water is called an aquifer. People often obtain drinking water from aquifers. Water may stay in an aquifer for thousands of years before it will ever come to the surface!!!

Artesian Well A well in which water rises because of pressure within the aquifer.

Springs and Geysers Geyser – A fountain of water and steam that builds up pressure underground and erupts at regular intervals. Eg. Beehive Geyser, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA Spring - A place where ground water flows to the surface. Eg. Hot spring, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA

Groundwater Pollution Fertilizers, Toxic chemicals and even salt can get into groundwater as it moves through the soil Restricting use of these pollutants can help clean up water

Groundwater Video