1. Saturated Zone: This zone contains water that completely fills all the pores and fractures in the ground. The water table marks the upper boundary of the saturated zone, and below this level, the ground is completely saturated with water.
2. Unsaturated Zone (or Vadose Zone): This zone lies above the water table and contains both water and air. The water content in this zone varies depending on factors such as rainfall, infiltration, and evaporation. The unsaturated zone can be further divided into two subzones:
- Capillary Fringe: This zone is just above the water table where water is held by capillary forces. The capillary fringe is usually very thin, extending only a few centimeters above the water table.
- Intermediate Zone: This zone lies between the capillary fringe and the land surface. The water content in this zone decreases with increasing distance from the water table.