Home >> Science & Nature >> Nature

How to Make Water From the Sea

Drinking a glass of water scooped straight out of the sea is a terrible idea, but it is possible to transform sea water into drinkable water. Through a process called desalination, mariners have been able to quench their thirst onboard without having to pack their drinking water before leaving port. The process is not unique to transoceanic ships; many desert communities also have desalination plants to treat their drinking water. It is a safe practice since it does not rely on potentially harmful chemicals.

Things You'll Need

Clean glass
Ice
Heat source
Boiling chamber
Condensing dome with spout

Instructions

- 1
  Pour seawater into the boiling apparatus.
- 2
  Place a glass condensing dome over the boiling chamber. The condensing dome should have a downward-facing spout where the processed water will drip out. Place a clean glass under this spout to collect the water.
- 3
  Place ice over the condensing chamber and allow the glass to cool. The condensing dome should be kept cooler than the boiling water so that water vapor condenses against it.
- 4
  Heat the water until it boils. As the water vapor gathers in the condensing dome, it will run down the sides until it is funneled into the spout, where it will drip into the collecting glass.

Nature