
artesian well
An artesian well is a type of well where groundwater naturally flows upward without the need for pumping. This occurs when underground water is trapped between layers of impermeable rock or clay, creating pressure. When a well taps into this pressurized aquifer, the water rises on its own, sometimes reaching the surface. This natural process makes artesian wells a reliable source of clean water, often requiring less energy to access compared to other wells that need pumps. They are common in regions with specific underground geology conducive to trapping and pressurizing groundwater.