Drinking water or potable water is water that is safe for ingestion, either when drunk directly in liquid form or consumed indirectly through food preparation. It is often (but not always) supplied through taps, in which case it is also called tap water.
The amount of drinking water required to maintain good health varies, and depends on physical activity level, age, health-related issues, and environmental conditions.[1][2] For those who work in a hot climate, up to 16 litres (4.2 US gal) a day may be required.[1]
About 1 to 2 billion people lack safe drinking water.[3] Water can carry vectors of disease and is a major cause of death and illness worldwide.[4] Developing countries are most affected by unsafe drinking water.