Sources of Water Meaning

Water is a precious and essential resource for all life, ecosystems, and numerous human activities. Sources of water can be categorized into two primary types; freshwater and saltwater. An overview of the classification is listed below.

Freshwater

It is characterized by its low salinity and is used for drinking, agriculture, and various other purposes. It accounts for only about 3% of the total water supply. Freshwater sources are further classified into two main categories;

1. Surface Water: The freshwater sources that are found on the surface of Earth are called surface water. They can be flowing like rivers and streams or in fixed bodies like lakes and ponds. Surface water sources include;
   • River and Streams: These are the flowing sources of fresh water that originate from sources like springs, melting snow, or rainfall. They act as the primary sources of water for various ecosystems and human establishments. 
   • Lakes and Ponds: These are the fixed or standing sources of freshwater that can be natural and artificial. They function as water reservoirs and can supply water for various habitats. 
   • Reservoirs: These are man-made fixed or standing sources of water that are used to store water specifically for human uses. 
2. Ground Water: The freshwater sources that are located beneath the Earth’s surface. They fill up the spaces between rocks, sediments, and other geological structures beneath the surface. The primary storage point for groundwater is the layers of permeable rock or sediments called aquifers. Groundwater sources include;
   • Wells: Dug or drilled holes that access the water stored beneath the Earth are called wells. 

Salt Water

Marine water or saltwater is the term given to water bodies that are rich in salt concentrations. These type of water bodies comprises approximately 97% of the Earth’s surface. The main sources are oceans and seas. They house a huge number of marine species. This water is not suitable for human consumption or agricultural use, however, desalination technologies have been developed that help to convert salt water into fresh water. 

Sources of water act as a fundamental component of the planet that ensures that all living organisms get the life-sustaining liquid called water.  These sources of water come in various forms that range from vast bodies like oceans to small lakes and underground reservoirs. Understanding these water sources is essential to ensure that we can maintain a reliable water supply and preserve water to maintain the balance in the living world.