Top 10 facts about water
Essential for life: Water is crucial for all known forms of life, as it maintains cellular function, metabolism, and overall biological processes in living organisms.
Universal solvent: Water's ability to dissolve many substances has earned it the title of the "universal solvent," making it indispensable for numerous natural and industrial processes.
Composition: Water is a simple molecule composed of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom, represented chemically as H2O.
High heat capacity: Water can absorb and release large amounts of heat before changing temperature, thanks to its high heat capacity. This property helps regulate Earth's climate and maintain a stable environment for life.
Expands when frozen: Water is unique in that it expands when it freezes, resulting in a lower density than its liquid form. This causes ice to float on water, which is crucial for insulating and protecting aquatic life during cold periods.
Polar molecule: Water is a polar molecule with an uneven distribution of electrical charges. This polarity allows water molecules to form hydrogen bonds, contributing to its unique properties like high surface tension, cohesion, and adhesion.
Covers 71% of Earth: Water covers approximately 71% of Earth's surface, with 97.5% found in oceans. Freshwater sources, such as rivers, lakes, and glaciers, account for just 2.5% of Earth's total water.
Water cycle: The water cycle is a continuous process that circulates water through Earth's atmosphere, surface, and underground. It involves processes like evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and runoff, ensuring water availability for various ecosystems.
Water scarcity: Nearly 30% of the global population faces water scarcity, a figure expected to rise due to factors like climate change, population growth, and increased demand for water resources.
Importance of conservation: Water conservation is essential for maintaining a sustainable supply of clean water for current and future generations. It involves reducing water waste, improving efficiency, and protecting water sources from pollution.
11. Water treatment: Water treatment is the process of removing contaminants and impurities from water to make it safe for human consumption and various other purposes. It involves multiple stages, such as filtration, sedimentation, disinfection, and coagulation, to ensure clean and safe drinking water for communities around the world