Why Are Seas Salty, but Rivers Sweet?
🔹 Introduction
When you sit by a river and dip your hand in the water, you feel the coolness and sweetness of the fresh water. But as soon as you step into the sea, a different taste touches your tongue: saltiness! The question is: why is there this difference? Why are all rivers and springs sweet, but seas and oceans salty?
This simple question opens a door to a grand story in geology, the water cycle, and even the history of our planet.
🔹 Where Does Water Come From?
The waters on Earth mainly come from two large sources:
- Rain and snow that fall from the clouds to the Earth's surface.
- Melting ice and springs that originate from underground reservoirs.
These waters are initially almost pure and do not have any saltiness. However, when they flow through the earth's soil and rocks, the story changes.
🔹 Water’s Journey Through the Earth