Menu
Home
People
Places
Arts
History
Plants & Animals
Science
Life & Culture
Technology
Reference.org
Drinking water
open-in-new
<p>Drinking water or potable water is <a href="/facts/Water/0lkXnJPK">water</a> that is safe for <a href="/facts/Ingestion/VIsgnlnA">ingestion</a>, either when <a href="/facts/Drinking/0z0lG5FW">drunk</a> directly in liquid form or consumed indirectly through <a href="/facts/Food_preparation/47HVCwae">food preparation</a>. It is often (but not always) supplied through taps, in which case it is also called <a href="/facts/Tap_water/uQJ4Esz8">tap water</a>. </p><p>The amount of drinking water required to maintain good health varies, and depends on physical activity level, age, health-related issues, and environmental conditions. For those who work in a hot climate, up to 16 litres (4.2 US gal) a day may be required. </p><p>About 1 to 2 billion people lack safe drinking water. Water can <a href="/facts/Waterborne_diseases/pxM3dqM4">carry vectors of disease</a> and is a major cause of death and illness worldwide. Developing countries are most affected by unsafe drinking water. </p>