Which method is accepted for measuring turbidity in water quality?

The nephelometric method is widely accepted for measuring turbidity in water quality because it uses the principle of light scatter to quantify the amount of suspended particles in a sample. In this process, a light beam is directed through the water sample, and any particles present scatter the light. A detector measures the intensity of the scattered light, which provides a quantitative measure of turbidity.

This method is effective because it is sensitive to a wide range of particle sizes and can offer accurate and reproducible results. Moreover, nephelometry allows for continuous monitoring of turbidity levels, which is particularly valuable in water treatment plants where maintaining water quality is crucial.

While visual comparison can provide a quick, subjective assessment of turbidity, it lacks the precision and consistency of instrumental methods such as nephelometry. The Nelson method and fluorometric measurements are not standard for evaluating turbidity, with the former being less common and the latter typically used for measuring specific organic compounds rather than suspended solids.

In summary, the acceptance of the nephelometric method stems from its scientific basis, accuracy, and reliability in measuring turbidity, making it an essential tool for water quality assessment.