What is turbidity a measure of in treated water?

Turbidity is specifically a measure of the clarity of water, which directly relates to the level of suspended solids present. When the water contains a higher concentration of suspended particles, such as silt, clay, algae, and other materials, it becomes cloudier, resulting in increased turbidity. This cloudiness can significantly impact the water quality, affecting light penetration and, consequently, aquatic life. Monitoring turbidity is vital in water treatment processes, as it helps indicate potential issues related to contamination and overall water quality.

The other choices do not accurately describe turbidity: dissolved solids are related to water's total dissolved solids level, biological contaminants pertain to microorganisms rather than physical clarity, and temperature influences water's characteristics but is not related to turbidity.