What percentage of the Earth's fresh water is located underground?

Approximately 25% of the Earth's fresh water is located underground, specifically in aquifers, which are underground layers of water-bearing rock that can yield water to wells and springs. This substantial portion highlights the importance of groundwater as a vital resource for human use, including drinking water, irrigation, and industrial processes.

Understanding the distribution of fresh water is critical for effective water management and conservation efforts. While surface water bodies, such as rivers and lakes, are noticeable and easily accessed, the significant volume of water stored underground plays a crucial role in maintaining the overall availability of fresh water on the planet. Groundwater also interacts with surface water systems, creating a dynamic relationship that is essential for sustaining ecosystems.

In contrast, the other percentages offered do not accurately reflect the real-world distribution of fresh water. Less than 10% of fresh water is found in surface water bodies, and the remaining portion is found in glaciers and ice caps, which account for a significant majority of the Earth's fresh water but do not contribute to groundwater resources. Thus, recognizing that 25% of fresh water is underground underscores the necessity for sustainable practices in groundwater extraction and management.