What does the term “turbidity” mean in relation to water quality?

Turbidity refers to the cloudiness or haziness of a liquid, specifically water, due to the presence of suspended particles, such as mud, silt, organic matter, and microorganisms. When water has high turbidity, it means that these particles are present in significant amounts, which can affect water quality and clarity. High levels of turbidity can impede light penetration, disrupt aquatic ecosystems, and indicate pollution, making it an important measure in assessing water quality.

Understanding turbidity is crucial in water treatment processes because it can influence filtration effectiveness and disinfection methods. Monitoring and controlling turbidity levels is essential to ensure safe drinking water and protect aquatic life.