Final answer:
The water table can be at the same level as the lake surface depending on various factors such as precipitation, geology, and topography.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer is option 3) The water table can be at the same level as the lake surface.
The water table refers to the underground depth at which the ground is saturated with water. It is not always higher or lower than the lake surface; it can be at the same level as the lake surface depending on various factors. The water table rises and falls with changes in precipitation and can be influenced by local geology and topography.
For example, in regions with high rainfall or areas where the lake and the groundwater are interconnected, the water table can be at the same level as the lake surface. In such cases, the lake acts as a direct source of recharge for the groundwater.