WHAT IS WATER QUALITY?

Water quality is described as the condition of the water relative to the requirement of one or more biotic species and or to any human need, including chemical, physical, radiological
and biological characteristics. It is most frequently used by reference to a set of standards against which compliance, generally achieved through treatment of the water, can be assessed. The most common standards used to assess water quality relate to health of ecosystems, safety of human contact and drinking water.

The parameters for water quality are determined by the intended use. Work in the area of water quality tends to be focused on water that’s is treated for human consumption, industrial and domestic use or in the environment. Water quality is measured by several factors, such as the concentration of dissolved oxygen, bacteria levels, the amount of salt, or the amount of material suspended in the water. In some bodies of water, the concentration of microscopic algae and the quantities of pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals and other contaminants may also be measured to determine water quality.

Although scientific measurement are used to define water quality, it is not a simple thing to say that water is good or water is bad, so the determination is typically made relative to the purpose of the water, drinking, washing, irrigation, processing and other purposes. Poor water quality can pose a health risk for people and the ecosystems.