ENEV 321: L-4 Color Measurement in Water Quality

These flashcards cover key terminology and concepts related to color measurement in water quality, including definitions of different types of color, factors affecting color measurements, and relevant techniques used in water analysis.

Color Measurement

The process of quantifying the color of water, which can indicate quality and sources of contamination.

Apparent Color

The color of a water sample with suspended solids present, influenced by dissolved materials and turbidity.

True Color

The color of water after suspended solids are removed, reflecting only dissolved materials.

Color Unit (CU)

The standard unit of color measurement, equivalent to 1 mg/L of platinum in solution.

Natural Color

Color present in water due to naturally occurring colloidal particles, often from organic matter decay.

Humic Substances

Organic materials found in water that contribute to color, resulting from the decomposition of vegetation.

Disinfection By-Products

Chemical compounds formed when disinfectants react with organic matter in water.

pH Adjustment

The process of altering the acidity or alkalinity of a water sample before color measurement.

Suspended Solids

Particles that are floating in water, affecting both apparent and true color measurements.

Chlorine Disinfection

A method of treating water using chlorine to kill bacteria and other pathogens, which can affect color.

Centrifuge

A device used to separate suspended solids from liquids to obtain true color measurements.

Detection Limits

The lowest concentration of a substance that can be reliably detected in a water sample.

Sampling Preservation

The methods used to maintain the quality of water samples until they are tested.

Surface Waters

Water that collects on the ground and includes rivers, lakes, and streams, often colored by organic materials.

Wastewater Discharge

The release of treated or untreated wastewater into the environment, which may affect water color.

Industrial Effluents

Wastewater produced from industrial processes, often containing colored substances harmful to water quality.

Aesthetic Standards

Guidelines for acceptable visual quality of water, including its color.

Color Comparison Method

A method of assessing water color by comparing it to standardized color disks.

Ultrafiltration

A filtration process that separates particles from liquids, used to treat pulp mill effluents.

Colored Wastewaters

Wastewater that has significant color due to dissolved and suspended substances.

Organic Debris

Decomposing natural materials such as leaves and wood that contribute to color in water.