Chemistry - 5.10.1.2 Potable water

Define Potable Water

Potable water is water that is safe to drink.

Describe the purity of potable water

Potable water is not pure in the chemical sense because it contains dissolved substances.

How is potable water produced in the UK?

Potable water in the UK is produced by choosing an appropriate source of fresh water, passing it through filter beds, and sterilising it.

What are common sterilising agents used for potable water?

Common sterilising agents for potable water include chlorine, ozone, and ultraviolet light.

Explain the process of desalination.

Desalination is the process of removing salt from salty water or sea water to produce potable water.

What methods can be used for desalination?

Desalination can be done by distillation or by processes that use membranes, such as reverse osmosis.

How does the availability of fresh water affect potable water production?

If supplies of fresh water are limited, desalination of salty water may be required to produce potable water.

What is the role of filter beds in producing potable water?

Filter beds are used to remove impurities from water before it is sterilised to make it potable.

Describe the energy requirements for desalination processes.

Desalination processes, such as distillation and reverse osmosis, require large amounts of energy.

Identify the sources of fresh water in the UK.

In the UK, fresh water sources include rainwater that collects in the ground, lakes, and rivers.