Why Can't We Drink Ocean Water?

SciShow Kids

This educational video from SciShow Kids addresses a common question children ask: if there is so much water in the ocean, why can't we drink it during a drought? The host, Jessi, explains the biological reaction humans have to consuming high concentrations of salt. Using simple animations and clear comparisons, the video introduces the function of the kidneys and how they regulate the body's water and salt balance. The video explores key scientific themes including human biology (specifically the excretory system), the concept of concentration and solutions (comparing salt on popcorn to salt in water), and environmental science. It touches upon advanced topics like desalination (removing salt from water) and explains why this process is currently difficult and expensive to do on a large scale. For educators, this video serves as an excellent bridge between units on the water cycle, environmental conservation, and the human body. It provides a practical, real-world context for learning about organs like the kidneys and introduces the concept of osmosis in a simplified way. The content encourages critical thinking about resource management and emphasizes the importance of fresh water conservation.