Water is something we use (and consume) every day, but how much do you know about this thirst-quenching substance? You’re likely aware that humans, animals and plants need water to live — and although that’s the most important fact about water, a lot of interesting facts surround this most necessary of resources.
Curious? Consider this list your source for water trivia, courtesy of our friends at the Environmental Protection Agency. We’ve pulled a few of our favorite facts from the bunch. Read on to learn all you ever wanted to know about water!
- 68.7% of the fresh water on Earth is trapped in glaciers.
- Water covers 70.9% of the Earth’s surface.
- Water can dissolve more substances than any other liquid, including sulfuric acid.
- Water boils more quickly in Denver than in New York City.
- Approximately 400 billion gallons of water are used in the U.S. per day.
- The first water pipes in the U.S. were made from wood (bored logs that were charred with fire).
- A gallon of water weighs 8.34 pounds.
- Water is the only substance found on Earth naturally in three forms: solid, liquid and gas.
- The first municipal water filtration works opened in 1832 in Paisley, Scotland.
- Only 3% of Earth’s water is fresh water; 97% is salt water.
- There is more fresh water in the atmosphere than in all of the rivers on the planet combined.
- If you drink your daily recommended eight glasses of water per day from the tap, it will cost you about 50 cents per year. If you choose to drink it from water bottles, it can cost you up to $1,400.
Pretty fascinating, right? Be sure to check out the EPA’s list for even more water-related facts. Now who’s up for a game of Trivial Pursuit: Water Edition?