Turbidity & EC in Water | Definition, Principle, Measurement & Importance
Turbidity and Electrical Conductivity of Water | Complete Environmental Studies Guide Water quality is an important part of environmental science. Two simple but significant parameters used to assess water quality are Turbidity and Electrical Conductivity (EC). They provide useful information about suspended particles, dissolved ions and the overall characteristics of water. 1. Turbidity What is Turbidity? Turbidity is the cloudiness or haziness of water caused by the presence of suspended particles such as: Clay and silt Organic matter Algae and microorganisms Fine soil particles Other suspended materials When light passes through turbid water, these particles scatter the light. The amount of scattered light is related to the turbidity of the water. Measurement of Turbidity Turbidity is commonly measured using a nephelometer/turbidity meter. The result is generally expressed in: NTU – Nephelometric Turbidity Units A standard turbidity suspension is used as a reference for ...