Water is one of the most important elements on the earth. All plants and animals need water for survival, and apart from drinking it is required for domestic, agricultural and industrial purposes. Water is an indispensable element without which life on the earth is not possible.
1. Water on the Earth
- About 71% of the earth's surface is covered by water.
- The quantity of water on the earth is about 326 million cubic miles.
- Most of the water is saline and is found in seas and oceans.
| Type of water | Share of the earth's water |
|---|---|
| Salt water (seas and oceans) | 97.20% |
| Fresh water | 2.80% |
| Fresh water available as surface water | 2.20% |
| Fresh water available as groundwater | 0.60% |
| Surface water in glaciers and icecaps | 2.15% |
| Surface water in lakes and streams | 0.01% |
| Surface water in other forms | 0.04% |