WTO Source Water Characteristics 2

Question 1

Which parameter best indicates the presence of fecal contamination in a surface water source?

Accepted Answer

Fecal coliform count

Answer

Total dissolved solids

Answer

Water hardness

Answer

Alkalinity level

Question 2

What is the primary cause of seasonal taste and odor problems in reservoir source water?

Accepted Answer

Algal blooms producing geosmin and MIB

Answer

High iron concentration

Answer

Chlorine residual decay

Answer

Excessive sedimentation

Question 3

A source water with a pH of 9.5 is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Strongly alkaline

Answer

Strongly acidic

Answer

Slightly acidic

Answer

Neutral

Question 4

What does a high total organic carbon (TOC) level in source water indicate to a water treatment operator?

Accepted Answer

Greater potential for DBP formation during chlorination

Answer

Low risk of disinfection byproduct formation

Answer

Reduced coagulant demand

Answer

Better aesthetic water quality

Question 5

Which source water type is most susceptible to rapid quality changes following a heavy rainfall event?

Accepted Answer

Surface water reservoir

Answer

Deep confined aquifer

Answer

Unconfined artesian well

Answer

Naturally filtered spring

Question 6

The ratio of bicarbonate, carbonate, and hydroxide ions in source water determines its:

Accepted Answer

Alkalinity

Answer

Hardness

Answer

Turbidity

Answer

Conductivity

Question 7

Which natural process is primarily responsible for elevated iron and manganese concentrations in groundwater sources?

Accepted Answer

Dissolution from geological formations under anaerobic conditions

Answer

Photosynthesis by aquatic plants

Answer

Surface runoff from agricultural areas

Answer

Atmospheric deposition