ENEV 321: L-6 Introduction to Solids and Turbidity in Water Treatment

This flashcard set covers essential vocabulary related to solids and turbidity in water treatment, focusing on definitions and applications relevant to the field.

Solids

A state of matter characterized by a fixed shape and volume.

Turbidity

A measure of the cloudiness of water, indicating the presence of suspended particles.

Colloidal Particles

Particles smaller than 1 μm that do not settle due to their electric surface charge.

Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)

The concentration of dissolved substances in water, measured in mg/L.

Total Suspended Solids (TSS)

Materials retained by a filter that are large enough to settle out of solution.

Hydrophilic Colloids

Colloids that attract water and are stable, such as soap and soluble starch.

Hydrophobic Colloids

Colloids that do not have an affinity for water and are stabilized by surface charges.

Imhoff Cone

A device used to measure settleable solids in water under quiescent conditions.

Volatile Solids

Solids that can be lost as gases during heating, often related to organic content.

Coagulation and Flocculation

Processes used to aggregate colloidal particles for removal from water.

Filtration

A separation process used to remove suspended solids from liquids.

Sedimentation

The process whereby suspended solids settle out of a liquid due to gravity.

Centrifugation

A method used to separate particles from a liquid by spinning it at high speed.

NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Units)

The unit of measurement for turbidity in water samples.

Measurement Techniques

Methods used to quantify turbidity, including turbidimeters and calibration standards.

Organic Matter

Natural substances derived from living organisms that contribute to turbidity.

Aesthetics in Water Quality

The visual appeal of water, often affected by turbidity and color.

Pathogens

Microorganisms that can cause disease, which may be shielded by particulates in water.

Regulatory Standards for TDS

Guidelines determining acceptable levels of dissolved solids in drinking water.

Particle Size Analysis

The measurement and evaluation of the size distribution of particles in a sample.

Calibration in Analysis

The process of adjusting equipment to ensure accurate measurements of particle size.