Sediments in and below a dewatered area of an aquifer become compacted because:

A) water pressure drops and the pore spaces are closed
B) water pressure increases and the pore spaces become too porous
C) water pressure remains the same but the pore spaces become clogged with new sediments

Pore Spaces

The voids or gaps between soil or rock particles, which can contain water or air.

Water Pressure

The force exerted by water on any surface it is in contact with, significant in various geological and biological processes.

Dewatered Area

describes a region from which water has been removed, typically for construction or drainage purposes.