What gives the taste of drinking water?

Drinking water doesn't have a distinct taste in the way that, say, orange juice or coffee do.

However, the perception of water's taste can be influenced by several factors:

* Dissolved minerals: Even "pure" water contains trace amounts of minerals like calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium. These minerals can contribute to a slightly "hard" or "soft" taste.

* Temperature: Cold water generally tastes cleaner and fresher, while warm water can have a slightly metallic taste.

* Previous tastes: If you've just eaten something sweet or salty, your taste buds will be more sensitive to those flavors, and water might seem to have a corresponding aftertaste.

* Psychological factors: Our perception of taste is influenced by our expectations and experiences. If we believe water should taste a certain way, we are more likely to perceive that taste.

* Water treatment: Chlorine and other chemicals used to treat water can impart a taste or odor.

In essence, the "taste" of drinking water is more about what we *expect* to taste, rather than a distinct flavor of its own.