Student Article
Understanding Water: The Key to Life on Earth
Hydrogen bonding (noun): The force that attracts water molecules to each other.
Solvent (noun): A substance that can dissolve other materials.
Evaporate (verb): Turn from liquid into a gas, usually because of heat.
Water covers about 70% of Earth’s surface and is vital for life. Without water, nothing could live on Earth.
A one-of-a-kind molecule
Water is unique because it can exist as a solid, liquid, and gas. This makes it an essential part of our planet’s systems, especially the water cycle.
Sticky molecules that help life
Water helps move nutrients, oxygen, and waste in our bodies and plants. It can dissolve many different substances, making it a great solvent for life. Water also has a special ability called hydrogen bonding, which allows it to stick to other substances and hold them apart, which is why it is so important to life on Earth.
The water cycle keeps it moving
The water cycle is important for life on Earth. Water evaporates from oceans and plants, rises into the air, and returns as rain or snow. The Sun provides the energy that keeps this cycle moving. Knowing how the water cycle works helps us protect and manage our water supply.
Water in space?
Scientists are excited about the discovery of water on other planets and moons, like Jupiter’s moon Europa. Though water is common in the Universe, Earth has it in the right amounts and forms to support life. Understanding how water works is important because it helps us take care of our resources, especially when it comes to using water wisely.
© Brian Clegg / Our Media
Hydrogen bonding (noun): The force that attracts water molecules to each other.
Solvent (noun): A substance that can dissolve other materials.
Evaporate (verb): Turn from liquid into a gas, usually because of heat.