The Wonderful Cycle of Water

Water, or H2O, is one of the most essential and plentiful compounds on Earth. Existing in gaseous, solid, and liquid states, it is tasteless and odourless at room temperature. 

Water has the important ability to dissolve other substances and its versatility as a solvent is one of the qualities that makes it essential to living organisms. Access to cleaner, more reliable water is essential so that humans can thrive. 

The hydrological cycle, or water cycle, is a continual four-step process whereby water circulates through our environment. The water we consume and use everyday, comes from two main sources; groundwater and surface water.

Ground Water

When rain or melting snow seeps into the ground, it collects in underground pockets called aquifers, which store the groundwater. 

Groundwater usually comes from aquifers through a drilled well or natural spring.

• 70% of the Earth's surface is water.
• 3% of our water is freshwater.
• 1% of that freshwater is usable for humans.

A typical North American uses about 82 gallons of water every day. If that sounds like a lot, consider that the total includes not just drinking water, but also the water used for washing, watering lawns and waste disposal.

Surface Water

Surface water flows through or collects in streams, rivers, lakes, reservoirs and oceans — not underground like groundwater. Surface water can be beautiful, even pristine looking, but most of it isn’t directly fit for drinking.

How does water get to you?

Water is delivered to your home one of two ways: through your city distribution system or from a well. 

Typically, pipes bring the water supply from a facility that treats the water to your home or business. A well-built and maintained distribution system of pipes helps ensure its quality.  Well water tends to be more prevalent in rural areas, and serves individual homes verses communities.

Check out this short video for more details...