Earth Science
Human Impacts on the Earth Environment
Safety of Water
Study Tip
Nearly one-fifth of the world population has no access to clean water.
Water Treatment
- Unsafe water contains many pathogens, which causes a variety of diseases.
- Natural sources of water are treated with disinfectants such as chlorine, to kill bacteria and other microscopic pathogens.
- In most communities in the United States, water undergoes a lengthy process before ending up in drinking fountains.
Study Tip
Nearly one-fifth of the world population has no access to clean water.
Water Treatment Process
The water treatment process involves the following five steps:
- Coagulation
- Sedimentation
- Filtration
- Disinfection
- Storage
Effects of Water Pollution
- Drinking unsafe water causes approximately 88% of all diseases.
- Throughout the world, more than 14,000 people die every day from waterborne diseases such as cholera and Guinea Worm disease.
Concept Check
- What do waterborne diseases from unsafe drinking water lead to?
- How is water treated in many communities across the United States?
