Final answer:
The characteristic of a material that has no pores or openings and cannot absorb liquids is that it is impermeable. This is important in geology for understanding fluid transport in materials like aquifers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The characteristic of an item that is made of a material with no pores or openings and cannot absorb liquids is that it is impermeable. An impermeable material does not allow fluids to pass through it. This is in contrast to porous materials, which have openings that can permit the absorption of liquids. Examples of impermeable materials include certain plastics, glass, and some metals. In contrast, porous materials like sponge and unglazed pottery can absorb liquids easily.
Permeability is a concept often discussed in geology, where it refers to the ability of a geologic material, such as rock, to transport fluids. This characteristic is crucial for understanding the movement of water through aquifers. Sedimentary rocks such as sandstone and limestone are good examples of permeable materials that can act as aquifers, allowing water to flow through them efficiently.