Water Quality Analysis - Weebly



[pic] Water Quality Analysis Lab[pic]

*for use with LaMotte TesTab Investigations Kit

Alkalinity:

Alkalinity refers to the ability of water to neutralize acids as they are created or deposited in the aquatic ecosystem. This process, also known as buffering, is critical to maintaining a proper pH level. A healthy, productive freshwater lake typically has a pH of about 8. Natural pH buffers, primarily bicarbonates and carbonates, help to maintain the pH at this level and prevent fluctuations. A temporary loss of this buffering capability would allow the pH to drop to levels that are harmful to aquatic organisms. (ex. acid rain being trapped as ice melting in the spring and dumping into a lake would affect alkalinity).

Buffering materials in aquatic environments are produced by leaching of rocks, minerals, and soil through which the water flows.

Alkalinity is usually expressed as parts per million (ppm) of calcium carbonate (CaCO3). Alkalinity levels of 100-200 ppm will stabilize the pH level in an aquatic environment. Levels between 20- 200 ppm are typically found in freshwater. Seawater generally has alkalinity levels from 100-125 ppm.

Ammonia:

Ammonia is present in different amounts in many surface and ground waters. The primary sources of ammonia in water are bacterial decomposition of wastes and the excretions from aquatic animals. Ammonia serves as a source of nitrogen, which acts as nourishment for aquatic plants.

Ammonia exists in two forms in water: unionized (NH3) and ionized (NH4). NH3 is toxic to fish. NH4 is not toxic, except at extremely high levels. The relative proportions of each form present are regulated by temperature and pH.

Ammonia is usually present in low quantities ( ................
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