saline water

Saline water is water that contains dissolved salts, primarily sodium chloride (table salt). It is naturally occurring in oceans and seas, making up about 3.5% of the water’s volume. The saltiness of saline water affects its density and how it interacts with living organisms. While potable (drinkable) water has very low salt content, saline water is too salty for most drinking and agricultural uses directly. It is often processed through desalination to remove salts, making it suitable for human consumption or irrigation. Saline water plays a vital role in Earth's ecosystems and climate regulation.