What phenomenon occurs when water is extracted from a well leading to a reduction in water level?

The phenomenon that occurs when water is extracted from a well, leading to a reduction in water level, is known as the formation of a cone of depression. When groundwater is removed from an aquifer through a well, the water table around the well begins to lower, creating a depression that resembles an inward funnel. This cone shape is a direct result of the hydraulic drawdown caused by the extraction of water.

As water is withdrawn from the well, the surrounding water in the aquifer flows toward the well to replace the extracted water, resulting in a decrease in pressure in the adjacent areas. Over time, if the extraction rate exceeds the recharge rate of the aquifer, the cone of depression can widen and deepen, which may have implications for nearby wells and the overall ecosystem.

The concept of a cone of depression is essential in hydrology and groundwater management, as it indicates the degree of groundwater extraction and the sustainability of water sources. Understanding this phenomenon aids in developing practices to prevent over-extraction and manage groundwater resources effectively.