Which of the following describes the composition of an aquifer?

An aquifer is specifically defined as a geological formation that can store and transmit water, making it an essential component of the hydrological cycle. The correct answer highlights that aquifers are typically composed of permeable materials such as sand and gravel. These materials allow water to flow freely, which is critical for the aquifer’s function in supplying water to wells and springs.

In contrast to the correct answer, solid rock with no permeability would not be able to store or transmit water effectively, ruling out that option as a description of an aquifer. A water channel with rapid flow describes surface water bodies rather than the subsurface characteristics of an aquifer, while a surface water body with sediment more accurately refers to lakes, rivers, or ponds rather than a water-bearing geological structure. Understanding the composition of aquifers as being primarily made of sandy and gravelly substrates is vital for water resource management and environmental studies.