Using Water
Fresh water is used by people in a variety of different ways. Drinking clean, fresh water is essential for our bodies to carry out life processes. We need water to digest food, remove wastes and transport food and oxygen around our bodies. All of the cells in our bodies need fresh water to function.
Fresh water is used in our homes in many ways. Often, water is distributed from a reservoir to our homes by a water company. The amount of water used by each house is measured and people pay the water company for the amount they use.
In our homes, fresh water is used for activities such as cooking, cleaning and washing. Fresh water is used to maintain lawns and gardens.
Many devices and appliances in our homes are designed to reduce the amount of water they use. Examples include water-saving shower heads, half-flush toilets and washing machines with reduced wash times.
Fresh water is essential to farming. It is used to grow crops and raise animals.
Clean, fresh water is used to process food and beverages and to produce medicines, cosmetics and cleaning products.
Businesses and factories use fresh water in manufacturing, cleaning, cooling and electricity production. As the water is not consumed by people or other organisms, it is often not as clean as drinking water. Salt water can also be used in manufacturing and cooling.
In some regions, the amount of fresh water available for human use changes throughout the year. Fresh water can also become polluted, making it unsuitable for use. It is important to conserve the amount of water we use and ensure that our fresh water sources are kept clean.
Related Printables.
Modeling Plate Tectonics
Earth’s Landforms – Comprehension
Modeling the Ocean Floor
Water Around the World
Storing Water
How We Use Water
Review – Earth’s Land and Water
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