Open pit or holes constructed to collect groundwater that are then pumped out mechanically are called ________.

Open pit or holes constructed to collect groundwater that are then pumped out mechanically are called ________.

• A. Wells
• B. Basins
• C. Pits
• D. Sumps

Answer: (D)

Collecting groundwater at a low point near the work area so it can be pumped out is the idea here. A sump is a small pit or opening dug into the ground to gather this groundwater as water accumulates, and then it’s pumped out with a pump to keep the excavation dry. This setup is specifically for dewatering during open-cut work, allowing operations to continue without groundwater flooding the pit. Wells are drilled to reach groundwater deep underground, not to collect surface water at the excavation face. Basins are larger depressions used for storing runoff or surface water, not the focused, pump-out point needed for dewatering. Pits are generic holes, but a sump is the term that emphasizes a dedicated collection point designed to be pumped out.

Collecting groundwater at a low point near the work area so it can be pumped out is the idea here. A sump is a small pit or opening dug into the ground to gather this groundwater as water accumulates, and then it’s pumped out with a pump to keep the excavation dry. This setup is specifically for dewatering during open-cut work, allowing operations to continue without groundwater flooding the pit.

Wells are drilled to reach groundwater deep underground, not to collect surface water at the excavation face. Basins are larger depressions used for storing runoff or surface water, not the focused, pump-out point needed for dewatering. Pits are generic holes, but a sump is the term that emphasizes a dedicated collection point designed to be pumped out.