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