Springs form when rain water gets into rocks through cracks. Gravity pulls it down until it finds an opening in the ground in a low place. The spring water escapes through cracks in the rocks along these low places.
As it passes through the rocks, the water picks up minerals, which some people consider health-giving. Ever since ancient times, mineral water has been said to cure rheumatism, an inflammation of the joints, skin diseases, and poor digestion.
Tap water, on the other hand, comes from rivers and lakes, where it has flowed from the mountains or where it has gathered from the rain. It is stored in reservoirs or water towers until needed. Most cities add chemicals to their water to purify it before it is pumped to homes, factories, and other buildings.
An average person drinks about 16,000 gallons of water during his lifetime!
