What does Transmissivity measure in an aquifer?

Transmissivity is a key hydrogeological parameter that measures the capacity of an aquifer to transmit water through its saturated thickness. It is defined as the rate at which water is transmitted through a unit width of the aquifer under a unit hydraulic gradient, typically expressed in units such as square meters per day. This means that transmissivity takes into account both the hydraulic conductivity (a property of the aquifer material itself) and the thickness of the aquifer.

Understanding transmissivity is essential for groundwater management and assessment because it influences the supply potential of the aquifer. A higher transmissivity indicates a greater ability of the aquifer to convey water, making it significant in various applications, such as designing water supply systems and managing groundwater resources effectively.

The other choices refer to different aspects of groundwater and aquifers. While the overall water level pertains to the static water level within the aquifer, it does not directly relate to the water flow capacity. Concentration of pollutants focuses on water quality and contamination rather than the movement of water. The age of water in the aquifer discusses the timeframe of water retention and movement, which is unrelated to the transmissive characteristics of the aquifer itself. Thus, the correct answer clearly highlights the specific function of transmiss