 Natural springs: In the olden days,

one could just drink from a spring.

Now, the water must be tested to
be sure it is free of chemical
toxins and purified of biological
organisms.. To purify the water
without adding anything, ozone is
used. Ozone reduces to ordinary
oxygen, which is normally
suspended in water or released
into the atmosphere. It is then
bottled to make bottled spring
water. If the water is naturally
carbonated, then it is sparkling
water.
 Lakes and rivers. These days,
these are quite polluted. But they
are the source of tap water. Tap
 water is purified and disinfected,
usually with chlorine. Sometimes
fluoride is added. Some see this as
preventing cavities, others believe
it has health risks.
 The ocean. Salt ocean water can
be made drinkable through
desalinization.
 Streams, filtered or chemically
decontaminated. This is how
many campers get drinkable water
when camping. Drinking water
from streams without
decontaminating it risks giardia
and other illnesses.
 Wells. Wells can be either near
the surface or they can draw up
water from very deep. They need
to be tested for purity. But some
wells offer pure, drinkable water.
 Rainwater. Rainwater is actually
pure. Of course, it may get dirty
and contaminated by the roof or
surface where it is caught, gutters
or pipes, and storage. So, to drink
it, either purify it, or stand in the
rain, tilt your head up, and open
your mouth.