The Key Parameters Measured by a Water Quality Analyzer

Water quality can be defined as the chemical, physical, and biological characteristics of water that affect its suitability for designated uses. The importance of water quality cannot be overemphasized, as it affects the health and well-being of the environment and the living organisms that depend on it. Poor water quality can result in an array of negative environmental and health outcomes ranging from the spread of waterborne diseases to environmental degradation. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that water is of good quality before it is consumed, discharged, or used for any other purpose.

Water quality is assessed by measuring various parameters using different types of water quality analyzers. In this article, we will discuss some of the key parameters measured by a water quality analyzer.

1. pH

pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, and it affects the solubility of chemicals and the distribution of substances in water. Many aquatic organisms are sensitive to changes in pH, and a change in pH can affect the solubility and toxicity of pollutants in the water. A water quality analyzer measures the pH of water on a scale of 1 to 14, with pH 7 being neutral, pH less than 7 being acidic, and pH greater than 7 being alkaline. A pH within the range of 6.5 to 8.5 is desirable for most aquatic organisms.

2. Dissolved Oxygen

Dissolved oxygen is the amount of oxygen gas dissolved in water, and it is a key indicator of the health of aquatic ecosystems. The amount of dissolved oxygen in water depends on temperature, pressure, salinity, and the presence of aquatic plants and animals. A water quality analyzer measures dissolved oxygen in milligrams per liter (mg/L) and determines the saturation level of the water with respect to oxygen. A dissolved oxygen level of five mg/L or above is desirable for most aquatic organisms.

3. Conductivity

Conductivity is a measure of the ability of water to conduct electrical current and is related to the concentration of dissolved ions, including salts and minerals. A water quality analyzer measures conductivity in units of electric conductivity (EC) or total dissolved solids (TDS) in parts per million (ppm). Conductivity can provide an indication of the salinity and nutrient content of the water and can affect the aquatic organisms that live in it.

4. Turbidity

Turbidity is a measure of the degree to which water loses its transparency due to the presence of suspended particles or chemicals. High turbidity can indicate the presence of contaminants in water, and it can also interfere with aquatic photosynthesis and reduce the passage of light into the water. A water quality analyzer measures turbidity in nephelometric turbidity units (NTUs), which refer to the amount of light scattered by the particles in the water.

5. Total Chlorine

Chlorine is often added to water as a disinfectant to kill harmful bacteria and other microorganisms. However, excessive levels of chlorine in water can be harmful to aquatic organisms and can impair the taste and odor of the water. A water quality analyzer measures the total amount of chlorine in water, which includes both free chlorine and combined chlorine.

In conclusion, water quality is critical for the environment and living organisms that depend on it. The measurement of key parameters by a water quality analyzer is essential to ensure that water is of good quality before it is consumed or discharged into the environment. pH, dissolved oxygen, conductivity, turbidity, and total chlorine are some of the key parameters measured by a water quality analyzer, and they can provide valuable information about the health of aquatic ecosystems and the suitability of water for different uses. By monitoring these parameters, researchers and policymakers can make informed decisions about the management and protection of water resources.