What does the term 'water table' refer to?

The term "water table" refers to the top level of saturated soil or rock in an aquifer, meaning it is the boundary between the unsaturated soil and the water-saturated soil below. This is where the ground is fully filled with water, and any further digging would encounter water. The water table can fluctuate based on various factors, including rainfall, evaporation, and the rate of water extraction from wells. Understanding the water table is crucial for managing water resources, particularly in areas reliant on groundwater.