DEMONSTRATOR #34: ISAH, ASPEYA M.

Lesson 3: Water Part of the Earth and Its Uses

Bodies of Water
Earth is often referred as the “blue planet”. This is because of the great volume of water
covering its surface. 70% of the entire Earth is covered with water.
Water comes from different sources.
Saltwater from seas and oceans
Oceans are vast bodies of saltwater that separate or surround continents.
Seas are the smaller divisions of the ocean, partially enclosed by land. Seas are
sometimes called very large lakes. Scientists say that ocean produces 80% of the oxygen we
breathe.
Freshwater are small bodies of water
Unlike saltwater, fresh water does not contain salt. Freshwater is found in rivers, lakes
and ponds. Rainwater flows from land into streams and rivers.
Groundwater
The groundwater is kept and stored in an are underground composed of moderate to
highly permeable rocks called aquifers.
Water in the air
The water cycle is a very important cycle. This cycle goes on all the time. Without it, life
on earth would be impossible.
Water on the earth’s surface is heated by the sun. when it is heated, it evaporates and rises into
the air in the form of water vapor. In the upper atmosphere, water vapor condenses into tiny
drops and forms clouds. As the clouds become heavier, they fall as rain.
Uses of water
1. Many water forms are homes to fishes, other sea animals, and plants. These plants
and animals are used for food, medicines, and decorations.
2. Clean water is used for drinking, cooking, cleaning, and taking a bath.
3. Ships and water vessels travel in big bodies of water to transport people and goods
from one place to another.
4. Some water forms are for recreational purposes. One can go skiing, swimming, or
boating in these places.
5. Water may also be used in farms for irrigation and in industries for manufacturing
products.
 Causes of water Pollution
1. People throw trash and dead animals in rivers and streams.
2. Chemical wastes from factories, refineries, and mines are taken into the rivers,
lakes, and oceans. Oil spills from tankers are washed into shore.
3. Pesticides and fertilizers from farms are carried by rainwater to the lakes, rivers,
and finally to the seas.
4. Some homes do not have sanitary toilets. Human wastes are thrown into rivers
and other water forms.
Effects of water Pollution
1. Bodies of water that are used for swimming, fishing, and boating become dangerous
places for recreational activities when they are polluted.
2. Fertilizers washed into bodies of water can cause a rapid growth of plants and
decomposers.
3. Drinking or swimming in polluted water causes diseases such as cholera, dysentery,
diarrhea, gastroenteritis, and typhoid fever.

Keeping sources of water clean

1. Dispose of garbage and other trash properly.
2. Refrain from throwing detergents, fertilizers, and insecticides into bodies of water.
3. Prohibit dynamite and cyanide fishing.
4. Regulate the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
5. Participate in campaigns against water pollution in your community.