Learning outcomes

After studying this course, you should be able to:

• describe the operation and mechanisms of the hydrological cycle

• list and describe the major physical, chemical and biological characteristics of clean fresh water, and explain their effects on aquatic organisms

• explain the mode by which potable water is produced through the processes of screening, microstraining, aeration, coagulation and flocculation, sedimentation, flotation, filtration and disinfection

• explain how the issues of nitrates, trace organics, fluoridation and plumbo-solvency can be dealt with in potable water supply

• describe the main desalination processes used to produce potable water from saline or brackish sources.