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saturated rock
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saturated rock

geology
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Quick Summary

In geology, a saturated rock is one where all the void spaces within the rock are completely filled with water. This occurs below the Earth's surface, distinguishing it from surface water found in oceans or lakes. The water filling these spaces is known as groundwater.1

The amount of void space in a rock, called porosity, depends on factors like the compaction of sediment, the arrangement of grains, and cementation. Porosity is crucial because it determines how much fluid, such as groundwater, a rock can hold and transmit. This property is vital for understanding subsurface water resources and their movement.231

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
4 Britannica Sources
  1. saturated
  2. groundwater
  3. rock - Porosity
  4. permeability

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