What defines a flowing artesian well?

A flowing artesian well is characterized by the natural pressure present in the aquifer from which it draws water. In such wells, water is confined under pressure between layers of impermeable rock or clay. When a well is drilled into this pressurized aquifer, water can rise above the ground level without the need for a pump. This unique phenomenon occurs because the pressure in the aquifer is greater than the atmospheric pressure at the surface, allowing water to flow freely.

This understanding of the mechanics behind a flowing artesian well underscores why the option stating that it has water flowing naturally above the ground is the defining feature. In contrast, other descriptions, such as those relating to wells that do not rise above ground level, require pumps, or are capped, do not correctly capture the essence of how flowing artesian wells function.