What Is Water?

Of all water in the world, 97% is salty ocean water, 2% is polar ice and only a very small 1% is fresh water suitable for human needs.

The amount of water in the world remains constant and never changes (see the water cycle). As there is only 1% of fresh water available for use it is therefore sensible to make responsible use of such a vital resource. Nothing could survive on earth without water; not plants, animals or humans. The human body comprises of 2/3 water.

H2O
The chemical composition of water is H2O. This means that it is a molecule made up of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom.

There are three forms of water: 

  1. Solid - snow, frost, hail and ice
  2. Gas - water vapour
  3. Liquid - clouds, rain, oceans, lakes, rivers, fog

Water fast facts:

  • Water at 0° Celsius is at freezing point and forms ice
  • Water at 100° Celsius is at boiling point
  • Water can be found in the air. It is also part of the ground, trees, animals, fruit, vegetables, meat and our bodies
  • The moisture contained in the atmosphere prevents the earth from becoming dry and hot
  • We lose on average three litres of water per day that needs replenishing regularly