Drinking water

Drinking Water

Drinking water, also known as potable water, is water that is safe to drink or to use for food preparation, without risk of health problems.

Pronunciation

/driNGkiNG/ /ˈwôtər/

Etymology

The term "drinking water" is derived from the Old English words "drincan" (to drink) and "wæter" (water).

Health and Hygiene

Drinking water must be free of suspended solids, microorganisms and toxic chemicals. It is crucial for all known forms of life, although it provides no calories or organic nutrients. Access to safe drinking water has improved over the last decades in almost every part of the world, but approximately one billion people still lack access to safe water and over 2.5 billion lack access to adequate sanitation.

Sources of Drinking Water

Drinking water can be obtained from various sources including wells, springs, rivers, lakes, and rainwater. It can also be produced by desalination of seawater.

Treatment of Drinking Water

The treatment of drinking water involves several steps including coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection. These processes remove harmful substances and make the water safe for consumption.

Related Terms

• Waterborne diseases
• Water purification
• Water quality
• Water treatment
• Water supply

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Drinking water
• Wikipedia's article - Drinking water

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