What is Groundwater?
Groundwater is the water that fills the gaps and cracks under the Earth’s surface. It comes from rain and snow that soak into the ground. This water is very important because it helps grow our food, supplies water to our homes, and keeps the environment healthy.
- As water moves down through different layers of the Earth, it gets naturally filtered. This process removes impurities, making groundwater clean and safe for use.
- Groundwater is an essential component of the water cycle, contributing to the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the Earth’s surface.
- It plays an important role in maintaining natural habitats, supports agriculture by providing water for crops, and supplies fresh water for drinking and daily activities.
- Unlike surface water sources like rivers and lakes, which can dry up during droughts, groundwater offers a more reliable supply of water, especially important in arid regions.
- The journey of groundwater from precipitation to its emergence back to the surface (feeding springs, rivers, and lakes) or being drawn up through wells is slow, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh water.
Groundwater Class 11 Geography Notes
Water is essential for life, and a big part of our water comes from the ground. People use groundwater for drinking, farming, and industry. It’s important to keep groundwater clean because it’s an important source of fresh water.
This article will help you learn about groundwater in detail, including its sources, recharge, and importance.