Chapter 20: Problem 3

How are water quality standards determined? Distinguish between water quality criteria pollutants and maximum contaminant levels.

Short Answer

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Water quality standards are set by environmental and health agencies, considering factors such as the usage of the water body. Water Quality Criteria Pollutants are specific potentially harmful pollutants whose acceptable levels are determined based on scientific research. Maximum Contaminant Levels are the highest levels of a pollutant allowed in drinking water, considering factors such as cost, benefits, and detection and removal capacities. While Water Quality Criteria Pollutants consider any usage of water, Maximum Contaminant Levels are specifically focused on the safety of drinking water.

Step by step solution

Understand the Water Quality Standards

Water quality standards are defined by environmental and health agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States. They identify desired conditions of a water body and the means by which they are protected or achieved. The factors considered while determining these standards usually encompass the beneficial use of the water body, including recreational use, wildlife support and the provision of drinking water.

Define Water Quality Criteria Pollutants

Water Quality Criteria Pollutants are specific pollutants that can affect the health and survival of aquatic life and human health. These are specified in the Clean Water Act under the United States legislation and can vary from harmful bacteria to chemical substances like lead or pesticides. The specific allowable limit for each pollutant is determined by scientific research and varies based on the pollutant's toxicity and potential impact on human and ecological health.

Define Maximum Contaminant Levels

Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) is the highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water. They are set as closely as feasible to the corresponding health goals considering cost, benefits and the ability of public water systems to detect and remove contaminants using suitable treatment technologies.

Contrast Water Quality Criteria Pollutants and Maximum Contaminant Levels

The distinction between 'water quality criteria pollutants' and 'maximum contaminant levels' lies in their scope and application. While the former is concerned with contaminants in natural bodies of water that could harm any use of the water, including wildlife habitat, recreation, and aesthetics, the latter specifically considers pollutants in drinking water, with a focus on human health.

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How are water quality standards determined? Distinguish between water quality criteria pollutants and maximum contaminant levels.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understand the Water Quality Standards

Define Water Quality Criteria Pollutants

Define Maximum Contaminant Levels

Contrast Water Quality Criteria Pollutants and Maximum Contaminant Levels

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