Water Quality and Contamination

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Final Lab: Water Quality and Contamination Erin Hadden SCI 207: Dependence of man on the environment Dr. Mohamad Termos March 25, 2014 The theory of how contaminants are dispersed through our environment was examined by using three different experiments. The effects of groundwater contamination were examined by observing the ability of soil to remove oil, vinegar and laundry detergent before it reaches groundwater. There was some type of contamination noted from each source. The water treatment process was examined by using a filter made of materials with different concentrations and alkalinity then followed by a disinfecting agent. This process can separate water from contaminants. The quality of drinking water was examined by testing for contaminants and comparing the difference between two types of bottled water and tap water. Dasani water has the least amounts of contaminants but bottled water overall proved to have less contaminants than tap water. This combined data suggests that it is easy for our groundwater to be contaminated and we need to be careful when discarding hazardous materials. Each person requires at least 20 to 50 liters of clean, safe water a day for drinking, cooking, and simply keeping themselves clean (Why is safe, 2008). Water quality standards are implemented to keep our nation’s surface water consistent with the requirements of the Clean Water Act (EPA, 2012). These standards help to identify any water quality problems caused by improper disposal or discharge of hazardous materials. "Just because it's down the drain doesn't mean it's gone! These products may end up in your water supply, especially if you have an onsite sewage system. Store your toxic products in tightly sealed containers in a safe, dry spot, share them with others who can use them, or bring them to Clean Sweep events in your community (Kassulke and Chern,

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