ABSTRACT
This chapter deals primarily with the introduction and general discussion of the physical properties of a sample. Electrical conductance is a numerical expression of the ability of an aqueous solution to carry the electric current. Color in water may result from the presence of metallic ions, humus and peat materials, plankton, weeds and industrial wastes. The term residue refers to solid material suspended or dissolved in water or waste water. Residue may affect water or effluent quality adversely in a number of ways. Total solids are all solids contained in the water sample and are determined by evaporation and drying in an oven at a defined temperature. Suspended solids are not dissolved in the water sample. Total dissolved solids are the portion of total residue that passes through a standard glass fiber filter. Salinity is an important measurement in the analysis of certain industrial wastes, natural waters, and seawater.
