Understanding water quality

Please note, this course was written in 2003/2004 therefore some of the information is now outdated. Water is arguably the most important physical resource as it is the one that is essential to human survival. Understanding the global water cycle and how we use water is essential to planning a sustainable source of water for the future. In the UK there are areas where water supplies are limited, shown by recent droughts. Globally, there are many areas that do not have enough water to support the current population adequately. Decisions will have to be made on the best way to use water in a world where there is climate change. This free course, Understanding water quality, helps explain the options.

• Introduction
• Learning outcomes
• 1 Natural waters
• 1 Natural waters
• 2 Pollutants
• 2 Pollutants
• 2.1 Natural organic material
• 2.2 Living organisms
• 2.3 Plant nutrients
• 2.4 Organic and inorganic chemicals
• 2.5 Heat
• 3 The extent of water pollution
• 3 The extent of water pollution
• 3.1 Surface water
• 3.2 Groundwater
• 4 Treatment of water supplies
• 4 Treatment of water supplies
• 4.1 Water treatment processes
• 5 Sewage treatment
• 5 Sewage treatment
• 5.1 Sewage treatment processes
• 5.2 Sludge disposal
• 6 What do you know about your water supply?
• 6 What do you know about your water supply?
• Conclusion
• References
• Acknowledgements