Water: Our Lifeline

The Earth has many important components, each with a special role that helps life. Some of these are very important for humans to stay healthy and alive. For example, we need oxygen to breathe, and without it, humans and animals cannot survive. Just like oxygen, water is another very important thing that all living beings need. Water is not only precious but also necessary for everyone. It is the most important substance for all living things, including humans, animals, and plants. It carries oxygen and nutrients to the cells in our bodies, which helps keep us healthy.

Water is a colourless and odourless substance that forms the major component of Earth's water bodies, such as oceans, rivers, and lakes. It is a universal solvent as it can dissolve many substances. Although water is clear, it appears blue due to light scattering. Its chemical formula is H₂O, consisting of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. Despite its simple molecular structure, water exhibits complex chemical and physical properties.

The presence of water in a region greatly affects the biodiversity of that area. The cellular processes take place in the water-like medium. A major blood constituent is water, which allows it to carry substances throughout the body.

• Water helps in regulating the body temperature in animals and humans.
• It prevents the tissues, organs, and cells from drying out by keeping them moist.
• Water helps in the digestion of food. It also helps remove waste products from the cells.
• It provides a home for aquatic animals like fish and other sea creatures.
• Water hydrates plants and animals on land, helping them grow and survive.
• Plants also require water to transport food through different parts, such as the stem and leaves, and in photosynthesis.
• Water also plays a big role in nature. It evaporates from oceans, turns into clouds, and falls as rain, providing water for all living beings on land. This shows how essential water is for life on Earth.