GCSE Chemistry (AQA)

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Producing Potable Water

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Using resources Using the Earth's resources and obtaining potable water

Producing Potable Water

3:41 Water Treatment Methods
Spec 4.10.1.2
Previous Purifying Salt Water Next Life Cycle Assessments
  • In the UK, potable water is obtained by filtering and cleaning rainwater.
  • Potable water is safe to drink, not necessarily pure, with neutral pH and low levels of salts and microbes.
  • Water cycle: water evaporates, forms clouds, and falls as rain, collecting in the ground, lakes, rivers, or as groundwater.
  • Rainwater is fresh water with low levels of dissolved substances.
  • Fresh water has fewer solutes compared to salt water, making it potable.
  • Potable water production involves three major steps:
  • 1. Choosing an appropriate source of fresh water (rivers, lakes, or groundwater) based on availability, proximity, and chemical content.
  • 2. Filtering water through filter beds to remove insoluble substances.
  • 3. Sterilizing water to kill harmful microbes using chlorine, ozone, or ultraviolet light.
  • Filter beds consist of layers of sand and gravel to remove insoluble particles.
  • Sterilization involves adding sterilizing agents like chlorine, ozone, and exposing water to UV light.
  • Sterilized water is bottled or sent to taps for consumption.

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