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/, /ˈwä-/
Etymology
The term "drinking water" is derived from the Old English words "drincan" (to drink) and "wæter" (water).
Safety and Contamination
Drinking water must be free of suspended solids, microorganisms and toxic chemicals. Potable water can be used in various ways, including drinking, cooking, and hygiene purposes. Contaminated water can lead to diseases such as Cholera, Dysentery, and Typhoid.
Sources of Drinking Water
Drinking water can be obtained from various sources including Wells, Springs, Rivers, Lakes, and Rainwater collection. It can also be produced by Desalination of seawater.
Treatment of Drinking Water
The treatment of drinking water involves several steps: Coagulation and flocculation, Sedimentation, Filtration, and Disinfection. These processes remove harmful contaminants and make the water safe for consumption.
Health Effects
Drinking water provides essential Hydration to the human body. It aids in digestion, helps maintain body temperature, and plays a vital role in the functioning of cells, tissues, and organs. Lack of access to clean drinking water can lead to Dehydration and various waterborne diseases.
Regulations
In many countries, drinking water is subject to regulations and standards set by government bodies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States and the Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) in the United Kingdom.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Drinking Water
- Wikipedia's article - Drinking Water
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