Science and Medicine

Drinking water

Drinking water or potable water is water that is safe for ingestion, either when drunk directly in liquid form or consumed indirectly through food preparation. It is often supplied through taps, in which case it is also called tap water. The amount of drinking water required to maintain good health varies, and depends on physical activity, age, health-related issues, and environmental conditions. For those who work in a hot climate, up to 16 liters (4.2 U.S. gal) a day may be required. As many as two billion people lack safe drinking water. Unsafe water can carry disease and is a major cause of death and illness worldwide. Developing countries are most affected by unsafe drinking water.

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See also

• ▸Joseph Thomas Clover
• ▸Johann Caspar Kerll
• ▸Endometrial ablation

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