Water, substance composed of the chemical elements hydrogen and oxygen and existing in gaseous, liquid, and solid states. It is one of the most plentiful of compounds and has the important ability to dissolve many other substances, which was essential to the development of life.

Find research and advancements in the scientific journal Water comprehensive articles. Discover water-related studies.

Welcome to the science section of the USGS Water Science School, where you can explore the many aspects of water. All of our information is available by browsing the various categories below.

All living things, from tiny cyanobacteria to giant blue whales , need water to survive. Without water, life as we know it would not exist. And life exists wherever there is water. All organisms, like animals and plants, use water: salty or fresh, hot or cold, plenty of water or almost no water at all. They are adapted to all kinds of habitats , from sizzling deserts to the freezing, pitch ...

In its purest form, it's odorless, nearly colorless and tasteless. It's in your body, the food you eat and the beverages you drink. All forms of life need it. What substance is more necessary to our existence than any other? Water.