What is the standard unit for measuring water turbidity?

• A. Milligrams per liter
• B. Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTUs)
• C. Parts per million
• D. Micrograms per cubic meter

Answer: (B)

The standard unit for measuring water turbidity is Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTUs). This measurement is based on how much light is scattered by particles suspended in water, which directly correlates with the clarity or haziness of the water sample. NTUs are widely used because they reflect the way human perception and instrumentation assess turbidity, providing a clear and consistent framework for evaluating water quality across different contexts. This makes NTUs the preferred unit in environmental monitoring and regulatory compliance for assessing water clarity in various environments.

Other measurement units, such as milligrams per liter, parts per million, and micrograms per cubic meter, are typically used for quantifying concentrations of specific dissolved substances or pollutants rather than for measuring turbidity itself. By focusing on NTUs, environmental health specialists can effectively monitor and manage water quality and the impact of suspended particulates.