Chapter 12, Problem 19E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The four types of contaminants that are found in water with two examples each are to be listed.

Concept Introduction:

Water is a common liquid that is present on the Earth.

It is also known as universal solvent. It can dissolve a wide range of organic and inorganic solutes.

Water is vital for the existence of all living animals. Without water, no life form can exist, it constitutes an important part of rivers, lakes, streams, clouds, snow and ice.

Water is truly an unusual molecule such that being a low molar mass compound, it exists as a liquid at room temperature and has an anonymously high boiling point.

Ice floats on water because it has a lower density than water.

Water contains some unwanted particles which can lead to diseases and other hostile effects on human health.

Water acts as a good solvent, so numerous particles and microbes can contaminate water.

Biological contaminants: Some microbes can live in water and can cause various diseases like cholera, dysentery, and so on. Two examples of such microbes are Giardia and Legionella.

Inorganic contaminants: Some inorganic molecules can dissolve in water and make it impotable (not suited for drinking). Two examples of such molecules are Nitrates and Asbestos.

Organic contaminants: Some organic molecules can dissolve in water and makes it impotable (not suited for drinking). Two examples of such molecules are chlorohydrocarbons (volatile) and ethylbenzene (non-volatile).

Radioactive contaminants: Some radioactive elements can dissolve in water and make it impotable (not suited for drinking). Two examples of such elements are Uranium and Radium.