3.2.1. Parameters to Look for in Drinking Water

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does TDS stand for?

   Hint

   Think about what total indicates in water quality.

2. 2.

   Name a parameter that helps indicate water safety.

   Hint

   These are visible indicators.

3. 3.

   What is TDS?

   • Total Distilled Solids
   • Total Dissolved Solids
   • Total Solid Density

   Hint

   Focus on what dissolved means.

4. 4.

   True or False: Suspended solids affect the taste of water.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the difference between dissolved and suspended particles.

5. 5.

   Design a simple water quality test that can be performed at home using easily available materials to assess if drinking water is safe.

   Hint

   Consider the properties we discussed for evaluating water.

6. 6.

   Analyze the implications of high TDS readings in water from a public supply. What steps should be taken?

   Hint

   Link back to what TDS indicates and the types of treatments possible.