How to identify unsafe water sources
  • 1. What is the most visible indicator of potentially unsafe water?
A) A slight metallic taste
B) Cloudiness or discoloration
C) A constant temperature
D) The presence of small bubbles
  • 2. Which source is LEAST likely to be safe without treatment?
A) Surface water (rivers, lakes)
B) Deep well water
C) Artesian spring water
D) Municipal tap water
  • 3. What can indicate animal waste contamination?
A) Proximity to livestock
B) Water that is slightly salty
C) The presence of algae
D) Rocks near the water source
  • 4. Which of these locations poses the highest risk of chemical runoff?
A) Near an agricultural field
B) High up in the mountains
C) Far away from any buildings
D) In a dense forest
  • 5. What does a musty or earthy odor in water often suggest?
A) The presence of organic matter
B) The presence of chlorine
C) High mineral content
D) Low pH levels
  • 6. How can you assess potential industrial contamination?
A) Check for nearby factories or waste disposal sites
B) Note the color of the surrounding soil
C) Observe the local wildlife
D) Measure the water temperature
  • 7. What's a sign that well water may be compromised?
A) Cracks or damage to the well casing
B) Regular water testing
C) High water pressure
D) Presence of beneficial bacteria
  • 8. Why is stagnant water generally unsafe?
A) It's too cold
B) It's too clear
C) It's a breeding ground for bacteria
D) It lacks oxygen
  • 9. What visual clue suggests potential sewage contamination?
A) Foam or scum on the water's surface
B) A blue tint to the water
C) A high level of clarity
D) The presence of small insects
  • 10. What can you check for near a water source to assess safety?
A) The age of the trees nearby
B) Signs of recent flooding
C) The number of birds present
D) The type of rocks surrounding the source
  • 11. What piece of equipment is used to measure pH levels?
A) pH meter
B) Thermometer
C) Magnifying glass
D) TDS meter
  • 12. What is one of the best ways to purify water for consumption?
A) Freezing the water
B) Boiling the water
C) Exposing the water to sunlight for one hour
D) Adding sugar to the water
  • 13. Which is NOT a potential pollutant in unsafe water sources?
A) Pesticides
B) Heavy metals
C) Oxygen
D) Bacteria
  • 14. What does TDS stand for in water quality testing?
A) Total Dispersed Solutions
B) Tiny Decomposed Substances
C) Total Dissolved Solids
D) Toxic Dissolved Sediment
  • 15. What color does litmus paper turn in acidic water?
A) Red
B) Yellow
C) Green
D) Blue
  • 16. Which water treatment method is best for removing sediment?
A) Chlorination
B) UV radiation
C) Filtration
D) Distillation
  • 17. Which of these is most likely to contaminate groundwater?
A) Rainfall
B) Leaking underground storage tanks
C) Sunlight
D) Wind
  • 18. A sudden change in water taste may indicate what?
A) Contamination
B) Temperature change
C) Natural mineral fluctuation
D) Air bubbles
  • 19. What does it mean if a water source has high turbidity?
A) It's very pure
B) It has high levels of suspended particles
C) It's highly acidic
D) It's very cold
  • 20. Which of these is a common sign of bacterial contamination?
A) Heightened sense of smell
B) Diarrhea after consumption
C) Improved skin complexion
D) Increased energy levels
  • 21. What is a potential problem with relying solely on springs?
A) They always produce pure water
B) They require no treatment
C) They can be easily contaminated
D) They're always available
  • 22. What should you do if you suspect water contamination?
A) Continue drinking it in small amounts
B) Add bleach and drink it
C) Report it to the local health authority
D) Ignore it and hope it goes away
  • 23. Why is rainwater not always safe to drink?
A) It can collect pollutants from the air
B) It lacks minerals
C) It's always acidic
D) It's too pure
  • 24. Which material is safest for storing water long term?
A) Cardboard
B) Food-grade plastic
C) Copper
D) Rusty metal
  • 25. What type of illness is commonly linked to unsafe drinking water?
A) Cardiovascular disease
B) Gastrointestinal illness
C) Musculoskeletal disorders
D) Respiratory illness
  • 26. Which method is LEAST reliable for disinfecting water?
A) Using a water filter
B) Adding chlorine tablets
C) Leaving it in the sun for a short time
D) Boiling it vigorously
  • 27. What is a possible indicator of lead contamination?
A) High water pressure
B) A slight floral scent
C) Clear water
D) Old plumbing
  • 28. What is a common source of nitrates in water?
A) Natural rock formations
B) Atmospheric pressure
C) Fertilizer runoff
D) Volcanic activity
  • 29. If a river is heavily used for recreation, what is a likely concern?
A) Increased water clarity
B) Bacterial contamination from human waste
C) High mineral content
D) Decreased oxygen levels
  • 30. Why should you avoid drinking from puddles?
A) They lack essential minerals
B) They are always too cold
C) They are naturally acidic
D) They collect a variety of contaminants
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