This intriguing instalment of ‘Modern Marvels’ paints a vivid portrait of a natural compound that we all take for granted.

We examine the awesome manner in which water forms and carves the natural landscape, and explore its capacity to nurture and spawn life. We also look at the vastly profitable bottled water industry, and explain how spring water is pumped to production facilities, then filtered and sterilised.

Furthermore, we outline how huge centre pivot irrigation machines in Nebraska have revolutionised American agriculture, and how ‘heavy water’ helps to generate nuclear power in Canada.