What does the syringalazine test measure in water?

• A. Heavy metal concentration
• B. Free available chlorine
• C. Microbiological contamination
• D. Trihalomethane levels

Answer: (B)

The syringalazine test specifically measures the presence of free available chlorine in water. This test is important because free chlorine is a common disinfectant used in water treatment processes to eliminate pathogenic bacteria and viruses, ensuring safe drinking water. Monitoring levels of free chlorine is crucial for maintaining effective disinfection while preventing the formation of harmful disinfection byproducts.

Understanding this aspect of water quality is vital for environmental health specialists, as chlorine levels must be balanced to ensure both safety and palatability of drinking water. Inadequate levels of free chlorine may indicate insufficient disinfection, thereby posing a risk to public health, while excessive levels might lead to unpleasant taste or odor and potential health risks.

The other options pertain to entirely different aspects of water quality assessment and do not involve measurement by the syringalazine test.