Question

A village is affected by numerous cases of fluorosis. Doctors treating this patient learn that the majority of the drinking water for the village is drawn from a well. The water from the well looks crystal clear. However, the doctor sends the water for chemical testing.
Regarding this an assertion and reason are made by the doctor. Please select the right option.
Assertion [A]: The clear looking water from the well contains high amount of minerals, especially fluorine.
Reason [R]: Water impurities are always microscopic or submicroscopic; clear water need not be potable water.

• A. Both A and R are correct and R explains A
• B. Both A and R are correct and R does not explain A
• C. A is correct and R is incorrect
• D. Both A and R are incorrect

Answer 1

The correct option is A Both A and R are correct and R explains A

Water is usually polluted with microscopic impurities. The clear appearance of water does not make it potable. Several chemical indications such as pH, salt content and dissolved oxygen determine if the water is potable and fit for human consumption. All these can be tested through chemical analysis. A simple physical examination by looking at the water does not determine the potability of water.