What does turbidity measure in water?

Turbidity specifically measures the cloudiness or haziness of a fluid, which is primarily caused by the presence of suspended particles such as silt, clay, organic matter, and microorganisms. When water is turbid, it means that there are enough particles suspended in it to scatter light, thus impairing visibility. This can be a crucial factor in water quality assessments since higher turbidity levels can indicate poor water quality and may also reduce the effectiveness of disinfection processes.

Monitoring turbidity is vital for water treatment processes, as it can affect both the safety and aesthetic quality of the water supply. Increased turbidity can harbor pathogens, making the water unsafe for consumption, and can also impact aquatic ecosystems. Consequently, understanding and measuring turbidity helps water service workers ensure the quality and safety of drinking water.