Water covers over two thirds of the earth’s surface, and our bodies are comprised of over fifty percent water in order to function properly. Water is one of the most important resources essential to life. The study of water is so important because all life forms depend on it for survival. The study of water will help us to maintain better quality and adopt successful conservation methods for the future. Studies have shown that climate changes are causing the world’s rivers and other water sources to recede. The study of water may help prevent this incredible loss from occurring.
Water Quality
Water quality refers to the balance of the physical, chemical and biological makeup of water. The quality of water is conditional upon the use of the water. Different characteristics are suitable for agriculture but not for drinking water. The contamination of water is an important element that scientists consider when measuring the quality of water. Ensuring good water quality is essential to a healthy life.
Wetlands
Wetlands are areas of soil covered with pools of water that are home to specific plant and animal life and are considered biomes. There are two main types of wetlands and they are coastal wetlands and inland wetlands. Wetlands are commonly found near bodies of water such as oceans and rivers. They are found on every continent except Antarctica. Wetlands provide food, water and other resources essential to human life. They also provide an essential function for the environment by mitigating, which is sinking carbon dioxide as well as adaptation by regulating and storing the water according to the climate.
Water Conservation
Water conservation is defined as the effort to reduce the use of water. Conservation is achieved through preservation, recycling, and the implementation of various water saving techniques. There are many benefits of water conservation that include protecting the environment, planning for the future, sustaining energy, and conserving habitats. Water is the most important commodity and without the conservation efforts, water will become increasingly harder to obtain when needed.
Watersheds
Watersheds are areas of land where water converges at a single point where it then drains into another body of water such as a lake, estuary, or river. When it rains, water drains through different channels and basins to reach one destination. Watersheds can be all sizes and shapes and can cross state and national boundaries. In the United States alone, there are over 2,000 watersheds. Watersheds help to decrease the occurrence of flooding however, determining the amount of flooding is based on factors such as soil type, land use, topography, and more. Watersheds are essentially the earth’s organic way to drain water.
Other Water Education Resources
Aluminum Water Bottles: Learn the truth about aluminum water bottles.
- Resource Guide to Under Water & Aircraft Archaeology: The goals of this field are varied while some look to understand cultural history and others to study human evolution. Archaeology requires surveyance and then excavation in order to learn about the past.