10) Define the term 'aquifer'.

An aquifer is like nature's underground sponge! It's a geological formation that can hold and transmit water, often composed of rock, sand, or gravel. These natural reservoirs are essential for supplying groundwater, which houses about 97% of the world's freshwater. If you’ve ever taken a sip of water from a well, you’ve likely benefited from the magic of an aquifer! Aquifers play a vital role in our water supply, especially for agriculture. Farmers often rely on aquifers for irrigation when rainfall is scarce. However, over-extraction can lead to severe issues like land subsidence and reduced water quality. Understanding aquifers helps us manage this precious resource sustainably!