ദ്ദി ≽^⎚˕⎚^≼ .ᐟ lesson 10: water quality and availability

WATER QUALITY

It refers to the chemical, physical, and biological characteristics of water, which determine its suitability for a particular use.

Key Parameters:

1. Physical: Includes temperature, turbidity (cloudiness),

   and color, which can affect organisms living in the

   water.

2. Chemical: Involves pH (acidity or alkalinity), dissolved

   oxygen levels (necessary for aquatic life), and nutrients

   like nitrates and phosphates.

3. Biological: Presence of microorganisms, such as bacteria

   and algae, which can indicate the health of the water.

Factors Affecting Water Quality:

natural factors:

1. geology

2. climate

3. vegetation

human activities:

1. industrial discharge

2. agriculture

3. waste disposal

Geology

The type of rocks and soil in an area can influence water mineral content.

Climate

Rainfall and temperature patterns affect water quality.

Vegetation

Plants can filter out pollutants and stabilize soil, reducing erosion into water bodies.

Industrial Discharge

Factories can release chemicals and heavy metals into water sources.

Agriculture

Use of fertilizers and pesticides can run off into water bodies.

Waste Disposal

Improper disposal of sewage and garbage can introduce pathogens and toxins into the water.

Common Water Pollutants:

1. Pathogens

2. Nutrients

3. Metals

4. Organic Chemicals

Pathogens

Disease-causing organisms like bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

Nutrients

Excessive nitrates and phosphates can lead to algal blooms, which deplete oxygen and harm aquatic life.

Metals

Heavy metals like lead and mercury can be toxic to both aquatic life and humans.

Organic Chemicals

Pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and industrial chemicals can disrupt ecosystems and pose health risks.

testing and monitoring water quality

• Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water sets limits for contaminants in water supplies.

• Measuring pH, nutrient levels, and presence of specific chemicals.

• Observing organisms that indicate water quality, such as certain types of algae or aquatic insects.