Are we made of water?

Water is one of the most important substances on Earth, making up around 71% of the planet’s surface. But did you know that water also plays a crucial role in our own bodies? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the science behind whether or not humans are actually made of water.

The Basics

Let’s start with some basic facts. According to researchers, the human body is anywhere from 50-70% water (depending on age). That means if you weigh 150 pounds (68kg), approximately 75-105 pounds (34-48kg) of your weight comes from good ‘ol H2O.

But what does it really mean to say that we’re “made” of water? Aren’t our bodies composed mostly of organs and tissues?

Cellular Level

While it’s true that our physical form consists primarily of organs and tissues, those structures are made up almost entirely by cells – which themselves happen to be mostly comprised by…water! Each cell contains a salty solution called cytoplasm that makes up roughly 80% (!!!) of its total mass.

In particular, let’s look at two essential parts within cells:

Nucleus

The nucleus serves as each cell’s key gatekeeper since it houses genetic material used for growth/regulation – including everything from skin color to vitamin absorption rates. It too has its watery characteristics since nucleoplasm constitutes close to half its mass; sounds messy, right?

Mitochondria

Mitochondria generate ATP energy via cellular respiration so kinda like our personal Duracells running perpetually even while asleep but having less commercial appeal than batteries or high octane fuel; their matrix-like interior largely contains gasp …H20 in rather large quantities–surely ranking their significance somewhere between tiresome nightclub DJs and forgotten vowels in scrabble.

Beyond the Cell

It’s not just cells that contain water, though. Nearly every structure within our bodies – from bones to blood to brain matter – has a significant H2O component (Next Level!).

Blood

Blood is very much liquid-y and is made up of something around 50% plasma which contains–you guessed it–primarily water alongside vital components like proteins and salts…why does that sound anything but appetizing?

Muscles

According to researches muscle tissues are only about 75% AT MOST/not more than our water content; this may explain why massaging or punching oneself wouldn’t feel like an awkward inanimate object being pushed three feet left or right for instance (compare with kissing your own elbow)

Closing Thoughts

So, are we made of water? It seems so — at least on a cellular level. But humans are far more complex than any percentage could represent adequately.

Regardless, next time someone tells you you’re all wet —-just remember they may be absolutely correct!

water-pun-meme

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