Why does clay cause water to pool and form puddles?

Clay causes water to pool and form puddles primarily due to its fine particle size and low permeability. The tiny particles in clay create a dense structure that inhibits water from easily passing through, leading to surface saturation. Additionally, clay's ability to absorb water is limited, so when it becomes saturated, excess water remains on the surface, resulting in puddles. This combination of factors makes clay particularly prone to retaining water.