ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Color of water

Water is a clear substance, like nothing is there. But sometimes, water changes color depending on different things. Just like how your clothes change color in a washing machine when you add dye, water can change color with the things inside it or around it.

For example, when you pour a packet of fruit punch powder into the water, the water will turn red or pink. This is because the food coloring in the powder mixes with the water and changes it to that color. Similarly, if you stand near a lake or ocean, the water may look blue or green. This could be done to the reflection of the sky or the plants and living creatures that live in the water.

Sometimes, water can also change color when it is dirty or polluted. If you have ever seen dirty or muddy water, it is brown or yellowish. This is because when the water has dirt, soil or other impurities in it, it changes the color.

Therefore, the color of water depends on what is in it or around it.