What percentage of fresh water is found underground?

The correct answer highlights the significant proportion of the Earth's fresh water that is stored underground, known as groundwater. Groundwater is a vital resource, and it comprises a substantial portion of the planet's total fresh water supply. It is estimated that about 90% of the Earth's fresh water is located underground in aquifers and other geological formations.

This underground water plays a crucial role in the hydrological cycle and is essential for various human activities, including agriculture, drinking water supply, and industrial processes. Understanding this high percentage emphasizes the importance of groundwater as a resource that is often overlooked compared to surface water sources such as rivers and lakes.

Considering the other options, they underestimate the true amount of fresh water stored underground. For example, 70%, 80%, and 90% do not accurately reflect the current scientific understanding of groundwater contributions, which have consistently shown that over 90% of the fresh water is indeed found underground.