Physical
Related to the quality of water for domestic use.
Associated with the appearance of water
Eg. Color, turbidity, temperature, taste and odor.
Chemical
Sometimes evidenced by their observed reactions (comparative performance of
hard & soft waters in laundering)
Most often, differences are not visible.
Microbiology
Very important in their relation to public health
Significant in modifying the physical and chemical characteristic of water
Radiological
Considered in areas where there is a possibility that the water may have come in
contact with radioactive substances
Total Suspended Solid (TSS)
Mass remain on whatman filter GF/C after drying at 103-105oC
Measures biodegradable organics
Uses oxidizing microorganism
Affected by toxic substance
Affected by temperature
5 days incubation
Accuracy + 10%
Measures biodegradable and non biodegradable organics
Uses a strong chemical agent
Not affected
Not affected
2 hrs
Accuracy + 2%