Fresh water

Fresh water is naturally occurring water on the Earth's surface in ice sheets, ice caps, glaciers, icebergs, bogs, ponds, lakes, rivers and streams, and underground as groundwater in aquifers and underground streams. Fresh water is generally characterized by having low concentrations of dissolved salts and other total dissolved solids. The term specifically excludes seawater and brackish water although it does include mineral-rich waters such as chalybeate springs.

Sources of Fresh Water

Fresh water can be defined as water with less than 500 parts per million (ppm) of dissolved salts. There are different sources of fresh water:

• Rainwater and Snowmelt: Rain and snow are the major sources of fresh water. When it rains, the water evaporates from the surface of the earth and forms clouds. When the clouds become heavy, they release the water in the form of rain or snow.

• Rivers and Streams: Rivers and streams are flowing bodies of water. They are the main source of fresh water for many communities. Rivers and streams are replenished by rain and snowmelt.

• Lakes and Ponds: Lakes and ponds are bodies of water that are surrounded by land. They are another source of fresh water. Lakes and ponds are replenished by rain, snowmelt, and rivers.

• Groundwater: Groundwater is water that is found underground in the cracks and spaces in soil, sand, and rock. It is stored in and moves slowly through geologic formations of soil, sand, and rocks called aquifers.

Uses of Fresh Water

Fresh water is essential for life. It is used for various purposes:

• Drinking water: Fresh water is used for drinking. It is essential for human survival.

• Agriculture: Fresh water is used for irrigation in agriculture. It is used to grow crops.

• Industry: Fresh water is used in various industries for cooling, processing, cleaning, and for generating power.

• Recreation: Fresh water is used for recreational activities like swimming, boating, and fishing.

Challenges

Despite its importance, fresh water is a finite resource and its availability is under threat from pollution, overuse, and climate change. It is estimated that by 2025, two-thirds of the world's population could be under water stress, with demand outstripping supply during certain periods.

See Also

• Water cycle
• Water resources
• Water scarcity
• Water pollution

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