What is a water-bearing formation in soil commonly referred to as?

The term for a water-bearing formation in soil is called an aquifer. An aquifer is a geological formation that can store and transmit water, making it a crucial resource for water supply. It typically consists of permeable materials like sand, gravel, or porous rock, allowing water to flow through and be extracted for various uses, such as irrigation, drinking water, and industrial processes.

In contrast, the other options refer to different concepts in water handling and distribution. A reservoir is a large storage space for water, often created by damming rivers, while a spring is a natural discharge of groundwater at the Earth's surface. A well is a man-made structure designed to access groundwater, but it relies on aquifers to provide water. Understanding the function and distinction of these terms helps clarify the critical role that aquifers play in water distribution systems.