Why is water essential to life?

because your body is 60% water.

http://astrobiology.nasa.gov/ask-an-astrobiologist/question/?id=178

because you need water to live to keep you hydrated

Because not only is your body 60% water but also with out water plants can not grow and with out plants their is oxygen meaning no life on earth. plus with out water we would become dehydrated and die.

Water is essential to life for several reasons. Here's an explanation:

1. Solvent for biochemical reactions: Water is an excellent solvent, meaning it can dissolve many substances. It plays a crucial role in biochemical reactions in living organisms by acting as a medium for these reactions to occur. Many substances, such as nutrients and waste products, need to be dissolved in water to be transported throughout the body and to be properly metabolized.

2. Maintains cell structure and function: Water is a major component of cells, making up a significant portion of the cytoplasm, organelles, and even the cell membrane. It helps maintain the structure and shape of cells and is involved in various cellular processes, including cell division and transport of molecules across the cell membrane.

3. Temperature regulation: Water has a high heat capacity, which means it can absorb and store large amounts of heat without undergoing significant temperature changes. This property helps regulate body temperature in organisms. It helps prevent sudden temperature fluctuations by absorbing excess heat and releasing it slowly when necessary, keeping the body's internal environment stable.

4. Lubrication and cushioning: Water acts as a lubricant in many biological systems, allowing smooth movement of joints, muscles, and organs. It helps reduce friction between tissues, making movements easier. Additionally, certain organs, like the brain and spinal cord, are protected and cushioned by cerebrospinal fluid, which is primarily composed of water.

5. Transport medium: Water is a vital component of circulatory systems, serving as a transport medium for nutrients, oxygen, hormones, and waste products. It allows substances to be delivered to cells and transported to various parts of the body efficiently.

To summarize, water is essential for life because it facilitates biochemical reactions, maintains cell structure and function, regulates temperature, provides lubrication and cushioning, and acts as a transport medium in living organisms.