What term refers to the water that is located beneath Earth's surface?

The term that refers to the water located beneath Earth's surface is groundwater. Groundwater is found in the spaces and fractures of soil, rock, and sediment beneath the ground. It plays a crucial role in supplying water to wells and springs, and it is an essential part of the hydrological cycle.

Groundwater is distinct from surface water, which consists of water found in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. Unlike rainwater, which is the precipitation that falls to the ground, groundwater is typically stored underground and can remain there for long periods. Pore water, although related, specifically refers to the water held in the pores of soil or rock and is a component of groundwater. Thus, groundwater encompasses the broader category of water stored underground.