What is groundwater?

Groundwater refers to water that is stored beneath the Earth's surface in geological formations known as aquifers. These aquifers are capable of holding large volumes of water that naturally accumulates from precipitation and other surface sources as it percolates down through the soil and rock layers. Groundwater plays a crucial role in the hydrological cycle, serving as a significant source of drinking water, irrigation for agriculture, and supporting natural ecosystems.

The other options do not describe groundwater. Water collected in lakes and rivers is surface water, while water supplied from desalination pertains to the processing of seawater to produce fresh water. Water found in glaciers is in a solid state, representing a different form of water storage in the environment. Understanding these distinctions is important for managing water resources effectively.