Waterparameters

Water parameters (waterparameters) are measurable properties that describe the quality and composition of water across natural, engineered, and managed systems. They encompass physical, chemical, and biological attributes and are used to assess suitability for drinking water, aquatic life, irrigation, and industrial processes. Parameters are determined through field measurements and laboratory analyses and can be influenced by natural processes and human activity.

Key physical parameters include temperature, which governs chemical reaction rates and oxygen solubility, turbidity, which indicates suspended solids, and electrical conductivity, which correlates with ionic content and total dissolved solids. Chemical parameters include pH, alkalinity, hardness, and concentrations of nutrients and major ions such as nitrates, nitrites, ammonia, phosphates, chlorides, sulfates, calcium, and magnesium. Dissolved oxygen indicates the amount of oxygen available for aquatic organisms. Redox potential describes the oxidative conditions of water.

Additional indicators include biological oxygen demand and chemical oxygen demand as measures of organic pollution; salinity for marine or brackish contexts; and residual disinfectant levels in treated water. Measurement methods include in situ probes, titration, spectrometry, and chromatography. Interpretation depends on water type, regulatory standards, and intended use. Regular monitoring helps detect contamination, assess ecosystem health, and ensure compliance with health and environmental guidelines.