Describe in brief the different sources of water.

In Previous Years Questions

Water is vital for all living organisms, and it is obtained from various sources.

There are two main categories of water sources:

1. Surface Water

Definition: Water available on the Earth’s surface.

Characteristics:

• Clear and colorless.
• Often slightly acidic due to dissolved CO2 and organic matter.

Example: Rainwater, which is considered the purest form of water as it is obtained through distillation.

2. Underground Water:

Definition: Water that penetrates the Earth’s surface and is found beneath it.

Types:

1. Spring Water: Water that naturally flows to the surface from underground.
2. Well Water: Water obtained by digging into the Earth’s surface to access underground reservoirs.

Characteristics:

• Generally clear due to soil filtration.
• May contain dissolved salts, resulting in hardness.
• High organic impurities.