Question

Which of the following particles cause water to appear cloudy and hazy?

• A. Total suspended solids
• B. Pollen grains
• C. Hydrilla
• D. Cotton

Hint:

Turbidity is a key parameter in assessing water quality. It is directly influenced by the presence of suspended solids that reduce water clarity and affect aquatic ecosystems.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Water appears cloudy and hazy due to the presence of fine particulate matter that does not dissolve but remains suspended. These are referred to as Total Suspended Solids (TSS).
These solids scatter light, leading to a turbid or opaque appearance of water. TSS typically includes:
- Silt,
- Decaying organic matter,
- Industrial waste,
- Algae and microorganisms.
On the other hand:
- Pollen grains are seasonal and not a common contributor to turbidity.
- Hydrilla is a submerged aquatic plant and does not cause water to become cloudy.
- Cotton is not typically found in water bodies in particulate form.
Hence, the correct choice is Total suspended solids.