A saturated geological unit which can yield water to the wells at a sufficient rate to support a well is called ______.

aquifer

The correct answer is Option (1) - aquifer

An aquifer is a geological formation, typically consisting of porous or permeable rock, sediment, or soil, that contains water and can transmit it freely enough to supply wells or springs. Aquifers are vital components of groundwater systems, serving as natural reservoirs that store and transmit water underground.

When precipitation infiltrates the ground, some of it percolates downward until it reaches the saturated zone, where all the available spaces between grains of soil or rock are filled with water. This saturated zone is where the aquifer exists. The water stored within the aquifer is referred to as groundwater.

Aquifers vary in their characteristics, including their porosity (the volume of pore spaces) and permeability (the ability of water to flow through the rock or sediment). The porosity determines the amount of water the aquifer can hold, while permeability governs how easily water can move through the aquifer.

The rate at which an aquifer can yield water to wells depends on its properties, such as its porosity and permeability, as well as the depth and thickness of the aquifer. Aquifers with high permeability and sufficient porosity are capable of supplying water to wells at a sustainable rate, making them valuable water resources for human consumption, agriculture, industry, and other purposes.

Overall, aquifers play a crucial role in supplying freshwater to communities worldwide, making them essential resources for human civilization and ecosystems. Protecting and managing aquifers sustainably is vital for ensuring reliable access to clean water for current and future generations.