How can water pollution be measured and monitored?

Water pollution can be measured and monitored through physical, chemical, and biological testing of water samples.

Physical testing involves observing the physical properties of water. This includes temperature, colour, odour, and turbidity. For instance, a change in water temperature can affect the amount of oxygen in the water, which can impact aquatic life. Turbidity, or the cloudiness of water, can indicate the presence of pollutants such as sediment, algae, or microorganisms.

Chemical testing is used to detect and measure the concentration of chemical pollutants in water. These can include heavy metals, pesticides, nitrates, phosphates, and other harmful substances. Various methods are used for this, such as spectrophotometry, which uses light to measure the concentration of a chemical in a sample. Another method is chromatography, which separates the components of a mixture to identify the pollutants.

Biological testing involves studying the organisms in the water and their behaviour to determine the health of the water body. This can include counting the number and types of species present, observing changes in their behaviour or population, and looking for signs of disease or stress. For example, a decrease in the diversity of species or an increase in disease rates can indicate pollution.

Monitoring water pollution involves regularly collecting and testing water samples from different locations and depths. This can be done manually or using automated equipment. The data collected can then be analysed to identify trends, detect changes over time, and determine the sources and impacts of pollution. This information is crucial for managing water resources, developing pollution control strategies, and protecting public health and the environment.

In addition, remote sensing technology, such as satellites and drones, can be used to monitor water pollution over large areas and in hard-to-reach places. These technologies can provide real-time data and images, making it easier to detect and respond to pollution incidents quickly.