Question

Surface water contains: (a) Only salt (b) Organic matter (c) Salt and organic matter (d) Suspended impurity

Short answer

Surface water contains salt and organic matter, so option (c) is correct.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Question

The question is asking what surface water contains based on the given options. We need to evaluate each option to determine which components are typically found in surface water.

Evaluate Option (a)

Option (a) suggests that surface water contains only salt. This is not correct because surface water, such as lakes and rivers, contains more than just salt.

Evaluate Option (b)

Option (b) indicates that surface water contains organic matter. While surface water does contain organic matter, this option suggests it contains only organic matter, which is not entirely correct.

Evaluate Option (c)

Option (c) suggests that surface water contains both salt and organic matter. This is a reasonable option, as surface water often contains various salts and organic matter from natural and human sources.

Evaluate Option (d)

Option (d) claims that surface water contains suspended impurities. This is also correct, as surface water often carries particles and impurities from runoff and other environmental influences.

Choose the Best Option

Based on our evaluation, options (c) and (d) are both correct responses. However, the question appears to be looking for a straightforward answer that acknowledges the presence of both salt and organic matter, so option (c) is the most comprehensive choice.

Key concepts

Environmental Chemistry

Environmental chemistry focuses on the study of chemical processes occurring in the environment. It involves understanding how these processes affect the earth, air, and water systems. One of its primary goals is to explore how human activities influence the natural environment.
In the context of water bodies, environmental chemistry assesses how pollutants, like chemicals and waste, interact with water systems. This study helps determine the effects on ecosystems and human health. By analyzing chemical reactions in aquatic environments, scientists can predict potential environmental impacts.
They investigate how contaminants like salts, nutrients, and organic matter traverse through water systems. These studies guide efforts to reduce pollution and protect natural resources, ensuring water safety and sustainability.

• Assessing chemical processes in the environment
• Understanding human impact on natural ecosystems
• Mitigating pollution in earth's water systems

Water Analysis

Water analysis involves testing water samples to identify various components present, including pollutants and natural substances. This analysis is essential for ensuring that water remains safe for consumption and supports environmental health.
The testing process can evaluate several factors, such as pH levels, salinity, dissolved oxygen, and the presence of bacteria or heavy metals. Water analysis is conducted for different types of water, including drinking water, industrial water, and surface water like lakes and rivers.
Techniques used in water analysis range from basic physical inspections to advanced chemical and biological tests. This helps in identifying the presence of organic matter, salts, and impurities that could affect water quality.

• Essential for maintaining water quality
• Identifies chemical and biological components
• Supports environmental and public health

Organic Matter in Water

Organic matter encompasses naturally occurring compounds derived from living organisms. It is often present in surface water in varied forms, such as decaying plant material and animal waste. Although it is a natural part of water ecosystems, excessive organic matter can lead to water quality issues.
This matter serves as a food source for microorganisms; however, its decomposition may reduce oxygen levels in the water, which is crucial for aquatic life. Excessive organic matter can result from agricultural runoff, sewage discharge, and decaying vegetation, impacting water clarity and quality.
Monitoring and managing organic matter is vital to prevent environmental problems like eutrophication, resulting in the depletion of oxygen and leading to aquatic life decline.

• Derived from plants and animals
• Essential for aquatic ecosystems
• Needs monitoring to prevent pollution

Surface Water Impurities

Surface water commonly contains impurities due to natural processes and human activity. These impurities can range from suspended particles, like sediments, to dissolved substances such as salts and nutrients. They originate from various sources, including erosion, runoff, industrial effluents, and atmospheric deposition.
Impurities in surface water can affect its quality, making it unfit for direct consumption and harmful to aquatic habitats. Suspended impurities can disrupt water ecosystems by blocking sunlight, which is essential for aquatic plants and oxygen production.
Regular monitoring and treatment of surface water help in managing impurity levels. By understanding the types and sources of impurities, effective strategies can be developed to minimize their impact on both human health and environmental ecosystems.

• Includes both natural and anthropogenic origins
• Affects water quality and ecosystem health
• Needs regular monitoring and management