What does "water table" refer to?

The term "water table" refers to the level at which the ground is saturated with water. It represents the boundary between the soil that is saturated with water and the soil that is not. Above this level, the soil may contain moisture, but it is not fully saturated, while below the water table, the soil is completely filled with water. This concept is crucial in hydrogeology and in understanding how groundwater resources are managed.

The water table can fluctuate based on seasonal changes, precipitation, and human activities such as groundwater extraction. Understanding the water table is vital for various applications, including agriculture, construction, and environmental conservation, as it plays a significant role in the availability of groundwater for various uses.