What implies that water from a confined aquifer is artesian?

Water from a confined aquifer is considered artesian when it flows freely from a well without the need for pumping. This phenomenon occurs due to the pressure that builds up within the aquifer, typically because it is sandwiched between two impermeable layers of rock or sediment. When a well is drilled into this confined aquifer, the internal pressure can be sufficient to allow the water to rise up above the level of the aquifer itself, sometimes even reaching the surface. This characteristic flow is a defining feature of artesian aquifers, making the first choice the correct answer.

The other options do not relate to the definition of artesian water. For instance, an aquifer being polluted or having cloudy water does not determine whether it is artesian; these aspects pertain to water quality rather than its hydrological behavior. Also, if water cannot reach above the surface, it indicates that the aquifer is likely not under sufficient pressure to produce an artesian flow.