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