Potable Water Flashcards
What is potable water?
Water that’s been treated so it is safe for humans to drink
Why wouldn’t chemists call potable water pure water?
pure water contains only H20 molecules whereas potable water contains other dissolved substances
What pH does potable water need to be between to make sure that it is safe?
6.5 - 8.5
What is fresh water?
Water that doesn’t have much-dissolved substances in it
What are the two processes in the UK which are used to make sure water is safe to drink?
- Filtration
2. Sterilisation
What is Filtration?
Using a wire mesh that screens out large twigs then gravel and sand beds filter other solid bits
What is Sterilisation?
sterilization is to kill harmful bacteria and microbes by bubbling chlorine
How is sea water treated so it is safe to drink?
It is passed through a membrane that only allows sea water molecules to pass through it
Why is reverse osmosis un-practical?
because it requires a lot of energy meaning it is expensive and can’t produce large quantities of fresh water
