The term for groundwater that is confined and rises in a well because it is under pressure is:

A) artesian
B) groundwater divide
C) hydraulic gradient

Artesian water refers to groundwater that is confined under pressure between layers of impermeable rock or sediment. When tapped by a well, the pressure can cause the water to rise above the level at which it was encountered, sometimes even reaching the surface without pumping. This is distinct from regular groundwater, which may require pumping to be brought to the surface.