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Just as we all need air, we also need water too. Water is a basic need. We all need to drink water to stay alive. It is a natural resource. It has no fixed shape but instead takes the shape of the container.
Sources of Water
Surface water
Ground water
Have you ever wondered where water comes from? Well, here is the answer. Rain is the main source of water. Rainwater fills oceans, seas, rivers, streams, lakes and ponds. This water is known as surface water. On mountains that have snow, the snow melts and the water flows into rivers. Some rainwater does not flow but instead seeps into the ground. This water is known as groundwater. Hand pumps, wells and tube wells are used to get groundwater.
Drinking water
The water that we get from rivers, lakes and streams is dirty. It contains harmful substances and germs. Drinking dirty water can make us get sick. We should always boil or filter water before drinking. Filtering water removes dirt. Boiling water kills germs therefore making it safe for drinking.
The clean and pure water fit for drinking is known as potable water. This water does not have smell or taste.
Why is water important?
All living things (animals and plants) need water to live. We need to drink water every day. Plants also need to be watered on regular basis. Fish live in water. When a fish is removed from water, it dies. Plants and animals also die when they are not given water.
Water preservation and conservation
Water is very precious to us. Animals and plants also need water to survive. Below are some simple steps that you can follow to protect water.
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