Two uncountable noun connected by “and”

Question

Water and air is essential to us.

Or

Water and air are essential to us.

Which one is correct? Because there are two element, should I use are. But they are both uncountable, should I use is?

Answer 1

When you have two uncountable nouns connected by "and" you are still talking about plural things, so use the plural copula (or verb):

Water and air are essential to us.