BigNerds.com - Free Research Papers, Essays and Term Papers for College Students

Importance Of Water

CHAPTER 3: HOW IS THE WATER MOLECULE IMPORTANT TO LIFE ON EARTH?

The water molecule is the basis of life here on earth and is where it all began. Astronomers are continuously searching outer space and the different planets for evidence of water, which they think could possibly mean life somewhere else. Water is important to life on earth because all living organisms require water to survive and humans in particular could only last a week or so without it. One specific example of the importance of water to living organisms is how mammals control their body temperature by sweating; water’s change in density when it condenses allows them to lower their body temperature. The water molecule is involved in many chemical reactions that are necessary to keep things living. In fact, cells are almost entirely water themselves. The water molecule is also important for another reason; the moderation of temperature. This is important because things would not survive if the climate is not suitable (too hot or too cold). Water moderates air temperature by absorbing heat from air that is warmer and releasing the stored heat to air that is cooler. The water molecule is also important because it is a highly versatile solvent. The problem with water being so important to life on earth is that it can be contaminated very easily due to human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels. In addition, the pH in water is another issue as it can become too acidic or too basic to the point that it becomes dangerous to living things.

View Full Essay