Water Glossary B-C

Question 2

Backflow

Answer 2

A flow condition, induced by a differential in pressure, that causes the flow of water or other liquid into the distribution pipes of a potable water supply from any source or sources other than its intended source.

Question 3

Backflow-preventer

Answer 3

A device for a water supply pipe to prevent the backflow of water into the water supply system from the connections on its outlet end

Question 4

Basic Data

Answer 4

Records of observations and measurements of physical facts, occurrences, and conditions as they have occurred, excluding any material or information developed by means of computation or estimate. In the strictest sense, basic data include only the recorded notes of observations and measurements, although in general use it is taken to include computations or estimates necessary to present a clear statement of facts, occurrences, and conditions.

Question 5

BOD

Answer 5

Biochemical Oxygen Demand. The quantity of oxygen used in the biochemical oxidation of organic matter in a specified time, at a specified temperature, and under specified conditions. It is a standard test used in assessing waste water organic strength.

Question 6

Buffer

Answer 6

A solution containing a weak acid and its conjugate weak base whose PH changes only slightly on the addition of an acid or alkali

Question 7

Bypass

Answer 7

An arrangement of pipes conduits gates and valves whereby the flow may be passes around hydraulic structure or appurtenance

Question 8

Certificate of Approval

Answer 8

A document issued by the Ministry of Environmental and Energy which approves an undertaking (such as the construction of alteration of a water or waste water treatment facility) the C of A`s purpose is to ensure the quality of the environment and human health are protected

Question 9

Check Valve

Answer 9

A value which permits flow in one direction only

Question 10

Chlorine residual

Answer 10

The Chlorine measured in the water or wastewater, after application of chlorine

Question 11

COD

Answer 11

Chemical Oxygen Demand

Question 12

Coliform

Answer 12

A non pathogenic bacteria which indicates the possibility of pathogens

Question 13

Concentration

Answer 13

(1) The amount of a given substance dissolved in a unit volume of solution. (2) The process of increasing the dissolved solids per unit volume of solution, usually by evaporation of liquid.

Question 14

Confined Space

Answer 14

A work area which has difficult egress and which may have toxic explosive gases or limited amounts of oxygen.

Question 15

Cross Conection

Answer 15

(1) A physical connection through which a supply of potable water could be contaminated or polluted. (2) A connection between a supervised potable water supply and an unsupervised supply of unknown potability.

Question 16

Crown

Answer 16

The inside top of a sewer

Question 17

Curb Cock

Answer 17

A shut off valve attached to a water service pipe from a water main to a building, installed near the curb, which may be operated by a valve key to start or stop flow in the water-supply lines of a building. Also called a curb stop.

Question 18

Composite Sample

Answer 18

A composite sample is a series of samples taken over a period of time which are combined to form a single sample. This type of sampling is necessary if the water quality changes greatly over time. Composite samples are often collected using automatic sampler.

Question 19

Current (I)

Answer 19

The flow of electric charge. It can be compared to current, or rate of flow of water, in a rive. Current is measured in amperes (A)