What does groundwater refer to?

Groundwater refers to free subsurface water that fills the spaces and cracks in underground soil and rock layers. This water is stored in aquifers and can move through the ground, contributing significantly to the hydrological cycle. It is distinct from surface water, which is found in bodies such as rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.

Understanding groundwater is essential because it plays a crucial role in supplying drinking water, supporting agricultural activities, and maintaining natural ecosystems. The other options are not accurate representations of groundwater; surface runoff involves water that flows over the ground after rain, stormwater specifically refers to rainwater runoff that can cause flooding and erosion, and coagulated water suggests a physical change in the water state not typically associated with groundwater.