Water

Water

Water is one of the main ingredients to life as we know it, it covers 71 per cent of Earth’s surface and also makes up about 60 per cent of human bodies. It is so essential for life that humans can only live without water for three to four days. Water is a molecule containing two hydrogen and one oxygen atom, its chemical formula is H2O. Water is a liquid at room temperature, ice in its solid state below 0ºC and steam/water vapour in its gaseous state above 100ºC.

Why is the pink lake in Australia pink?

Hint: it’s not a Barbie movie marketing ploy.
more

Top 10 longest rivers in the world 2024

Spoiler: the Amazon doesn't take the prize for the globe's lengthiest river.
more

Is water actually wet? Scientists aren't sure

We dive into the surprisingly deep scientific debate.
more

What is guttation?

The build-up of water inside plants is released via sap through specialist pores in the leaf.
more

What is a yeti crab?

This squat lobster can be found hanging out at deep-sea hydrothermal vents and cold seeps.
more

What is a fogbow?

This rare weather phenomenon is the rainbow's ghostly cousin.
more

What are they and how are they made?

Also called ice stupas, they are an innovative solution to tackling water shortages caused by drought in the summer months, and can help combat the effects of climate change.
more

The best water testing kits for safe hydration in 2024

Test your kitchen taps, swimming pools or outdoor wells with our pick of the best water testing kits.
more

How does geothermal energy produce electricity?

Geothermal energy is obtained by pumping out hot water or water through hot rocks and back to the surface.
more

All you need is love: The Underwater photographer of the Year winners

Winners from this year's prestigious prize includes a cute baby turtle, a terrifying great white shark and a fish swallowing another whole.
more

Why hasn’t tidal power taken off yet?

Tidal power has good potential as a renewable energy source but there are currently a few barriers to its growth.
more

Does all life need water?

When we look for extra-terrestrial life, we look for planets with liquid water. But are we overlooking places where life could thrive?
more

The unseen stunning side of UK sea life, as told in 11 photos

The best photography from UK shores, courtesy of the Marine Conservation Society and some very talented UK photographers.
more

Why does ice float on water?

Normally, solids are more dense than liquids - so why is ice the exception?
more