In a water table well, what does the cone of depression represent?

The cone of depression refers to the area surrounding a water table well where the water level has been lowered due to the extraction of groundwater. When water is pumped from the well, it creates a slope or cone shape in the water table around the well, which indicates that the water level has been significantly lowered in that area. This phenomenon occurs because the water flow is redirected towards the well, causing the surrounding water to fill in the gap and creating a dewatered area.

Understanding the cone of depression is essential for water resource management, as it can affect surrounding wells, surface water bodies, and ecosystems. Monitoring this cone helps in assessing groundwater levels and ensuring that water extraction does not lead to negative environmental impacts or water shortages in nearby areas.