Chapter 5 - Water (Overview) - CBSE NCERT Class 7, SST Geography

Water is a vital resource for all living beings on Earth. It covers about 71% of the Earth's surface and plays a crucial role in sustaining life. In this chapter, we will explore the various aspects of water, including its distribution, forms, importance, and the challenges associated with its availability and management.

1. Distribution of Water
- Water is available in various forms such as oceans, seas, lakes, rivers, groundwater, and glaciers.
- Oceans account for the largest proportion of water on Earth, around 97%. They are saltwater bodies and not suitable for consumption or irrigation.
- Freshwater, which is essential for human needs, accounts for only about 2.5% of the total water resources on Earth.

2. Forms of Water
- Water exists in three states: solid (ice), liquid (water), and gas (water vapor).
- The water cycle, also known as the hydrological cycle, is the continuous movement of water between these three states. It includes processes like evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and transpiration.

3. Importance of Water
- Water is essential for various purposes, including drinking, cooking, agriculture, industrial activities, and maintaining ecological balance.
- It is a vital component of all living organisms and is necessary for their survival and growth.
- Water plays a crucial role in shaping the Earth's surface, eroding rocks, and forming landscapes.

4. Challenges related to Water Availability and Management
- Despite the abundance of water on Earth, there are several challenges associated with its availability and management.
- Unequal distribution of water resources is a major concern, with some regions facing water scarcity while others have an excess.
- Pollution of water bodies due to industrial waste, sewage discharge, and agricultural runoff poses a threat to both human health and the environment.
- Climate change and global warming are affecting the water cycle, leading to changes in precipitation patterns and water availability.
- Efficient water management practices, such as rainwater harvesting, water conservation, and wastewater treatment, are essential to overcome these challenges.

In conclusion, water is a precious resource that is necessary for the survival of all living beings. Understanding its distribution, forms, importance, and challenges related to its availability and management is crucial for sustainable development and the well-being of our planet.

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