Discuss 5 common parameters used to assess water quality ?

1. pH level: pH is a measure of how acidic or basic the water is. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Water with a pH below 7 is considered acidic, while water with a pH above 7 is considered basic. The pH level of water can affect the health of aquatic organisms and the overall ecosystem.

2. Dissolved oxygen: Dissolved oxygen is essential for the survival of aquatic organisms. It is a measure of the amount of oxygen dissolved in water, which is necessary for fish and other aquatic organisms to breathe. Low levels of dissolved oxygen can indicate pollution or other factors that are negatively impacting water quality.

3. Turbidity: Turbidity is a measure of how clear or cloudy the water is. It is caused by suspended particles such as sediment, algae, or other pollutants. High levels of turbidity can reduce the amount of light that penetrates the water, which can impact aquatic plant growth and the overall health of the ecosystem.

4. Nutrient levels: Nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus are essential for plant growth, but excessive levels can lead to eutrophication, which is the overgrowth of algae and other aquatic plants. This can deplete oxygen levels in the water and harm aquatic organisms. Monitoring nutrient levels is important for assessing water quality and preventing eutrophication.

5. Temperature: Water temperature can impact the health and behavior of aquatic organisms. Sudden changes in temperature can stress or even kill fish and other aquatic life. Monitoring water temperature can help assess the overall health of the ecosystem and identify potential sources of pollution or other environmental stressors.