Groundwater

Groundwater is the water that is found underground in the cracks and spaces in soil, sand, and rock. It fills the spaces between particles of soil, sand, and gravel, as well as the cracks in rocks. Groundwater supplies much of the water that flows in streams and rivers and it also provides water for drinking and irrigation.

How Groundwater is Formed

Groundwater is formed when rainwater or snowmelt seeps into the ground. This water moves downward through the soil until it reaches a depth where the spaces between the soil particles and rocks are completely filled with water, creating an underground reservoir.

Importance of Groundwater

Groundwater is an important source of fresh water for drinking and irrigation. It also sustains streams, rivers, and wetlands during dry periods. Groundwater can also provide a steady supply of water even during droughts, making it a reliable source of water for communities and agriculture.

Study Guide

1. What is groundwater and where is it found?
2. How is groundwater formed?
3. Explain the importance of groundwater.
4. What are some ways in which groundwater is used?
5. What are the potential threats to groundwater quality?

For further understanding, students can also research case studies on groundwater contamination and depletion, and the ways in which communities and governments are working to protect and manage groundwater resources.

[Groundwater] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Groundwater ResourcesScience • Sixth Grade
• Earth's Fresh WaterScience • Sixth Grade