What is turbidity a measure of in drinking water?

Turbidity is primarily a measure of the cloudiness or haziness of water caused by suspended particles. These particles can include sediments, silt, algae, microorganisms, and other materials that scatter light, making the water appear less clear. High turbidity levels can indicate the presence of pollutants and can affect the efficacy of disinfection processes, making it a critical parameter in assessing water quality.

In drinking water, low turbidity levels are desirable as they typically reflect the absence of harmful contaminants and provide clearer water that is more visually appealing. Monitoring turbidity is essential in ensuring that the water treatment processes are effective and that the water is safe for consumption.

The other choices do not accurately define turbidity. While color refers to the visual hue of water, dissolved minerals pertain to the substance being dissolved rather than suspended, and temperature measures the warmth of the water rather than its clarity.