Turbidity refers to the cloudiness or haziness of a fluid caused by the presence of suspended particles. These particles can be:
* Solid particles: such as clay, silt, sand, or microorganisms
* Colloidal particles: such as proteins, fats, or oils
How is turbidity measured?
Turbidity is measured using a turbidimeter, which shines a light beam through the water sample and measures the amount of light scattered back. The higher the turbidity, the more light is scattered.
Why is turbidity important?
Turbidity is an important indicator of water quality because:
* It can affect the taste, odor, and color of water.
* High turbidity can interfere with the disinfection process, making water less safe to drink.
* Turbidity can be an indication of the presence of harmful microorganisms.
* It can affect the ability of aquatic life to survive.
Examples of turbidity:
* A muddy river has high turbidity.
* A clear lake has low turbidity.
* Drinking water should have low turbidity.
Let me know if you have any other questions!