CHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF WATER
Professional Report
Mentor: Ana Mihičinac, prof.
Authors:
Ljubljana, November 2013
-Primož Centa
-Matic Mlinarič
-Matic Štrukelj
-Gregor Trobec
Instructions
Water is of critical importance for life. It is a natural treasure for which we have to be
responsible.
Chemical analysis of water greatly contributes to the precision of the measurement of water
quality. Chemical analysis of water is done using a special briefcase for water analysis and by
following the included instructions. While analyzing we measure a specific kind of parameters
(pH, temperature, NH4+, NO3-, NO2-, PO43-, thickness of water) and grade the color, purity and
the smell. The measured values of specific perimeters are compared to legally required
maximum acceptable values and with this technique the pollution and purity of the water is
determined respectively.
Task:
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Using the field briefcase chemically analyze water (from the spring of Sava Dolinka in
Zelenci, spring of Nadiža, nearby stream)
Critically evaluate the measured values of parameters and set the grade of pollution
Write a professional report in electronic form (help yourself with instructions)
Instructions on how to make the professional report
This kind of text contains a lot of professional expressions (terms). It is objective and narrative,
written in the past tense, it is important to correctly list the sequence of events and phases. While
doing that, the lingual correctness is very important. If the report is written using a computer, it is
mandatory to use the Times New Roman font, font size 12; line spacing of 1.5 and page border
should be 2.5 cm.
Components of the report:
 official school name / logotype
 type of article (e.g. Professional report; Labor report in practical classes; Report on
fieldwork)
 Front page with information regarding the students (name and surname, class) and the
mentor (name and surname); while working in pairs or groups the name of the group may
be stated (do not forget to list every member of the group)
 title of the report or assignment (e.g. Sequential binding of resistors; Chemical water
analysis)
 date
 objective of the experiment




definitions and explanations of the concepts, that concern the experiment and
measurements
description of fieldwork, measurements (describe the sampling site – look after the data
that you have to list (date, place, position, ground, name, altitude, …) and mark the
extraction point on the map which you will find using the world wide web
results of the measurements (compare the measured values in a chart with maximum
allowed values, you could also compare them in designed graphs)
analysis of the results and findings, conclusions, answers to the questions asked
Task questions:
1. Explain why it is more suitable to perform both chemical and biological analysis.
2. Why is the extraction point description primary data for explaining the results?
3. List some examples of measurements where you got qualitative and some, where you got
quantitative data. Which are the most reliable? Justify your answer.
4. Which of the concentrated parameters (NH4+, NO3-, NO2-, PO43+), that you have been
measuring with the chemical analysis can be increased? Why? What is the source of those
substances in the water?
5. Which quality classes of water are known to us?
6. How do we properly extract the sample which we wish to examine?
Bonus questions
You will be working in teams. Every group / team must have a leader who will take care of the
task layout for every member of the group. Every member of the team is responsible for their
own task and contributes to the success of the whole team.
Make sure that your team has at least one laptop and one camera at disposal. You also need a pen
and a notebook to take notes. Do not forget to bring appropriate footwear and clothing with you.
Purpose of the Task
The main purpose was to test the quality of water around Planica while getting familiar with
tools, used for testing. Our teamwork depended on the performance of every individual, however
the goal was reached collectively and with trust in our teammates. While working we became
familiar with electronic devices such as Vernier LabQuest interface, and new chemical ways of
testing with the briefcase for water analysis.
We also obtained a quality water grade and data regarding the pollution of individual sources and
watercourses.
Tools, Equipment and Material
We performed analysis of three different types, of which none was good enough to provide all
the data by itself. Therefore the implementation of all three was essential.
On the very spot of the extraction we could already verify the turbidity, color and scent of the
water, which provided us with information about foreign objects and consequently the pollution
level.
Electronic analysis: we used the Vernier LabQuest interface with various sensors. The device,
based on the sensors that we connect to it automatically calculates the desired data, draws a
graph and compares the results with other data if necessary. We used a pH sensor to determine
the pH value in the sample. For our temperature-measuring needs we had a sensor for
temperature at our disposal.
However, we could not measure everything electronically; hence we helped ourselves with the
briefcase for water analysis, which contained the required reagents that we added into the
sample. We then compared the sample to the color chain and so determined the ion content.
Tools:
-Vernier LabQuest interface
-pH sensor
-temperature sensor
-water analysis briefcase
-specifications sheet
-bottle for taking samples
Description and Work Course
Before we set course to the waterways we made ourselves some improvised bottles, which we
later used to sample the water. The cleanliness of the sample bottles was very important, as it
could affect the test results, so it was advisable to clean them right next to the extraction point.
While extracting the sample we tried our best to follow the rules, which state that the sample
must be taken 1m away from the bank and half a meter under the surface as this ensures that the
sample contains only the things we wish to test. After the sampling we described the
surroundings, bank type and the circumstances of the extraction (temperature, weather,
appearance of the sample, altitude, pollution level).
Afterwards, we took the sample into our living quarters and proceeded with the analysis. To
evaluate the callousness of water we used the Vernier LabQuest interface and the pH sensor.
We were simultaneously writing the results on the list we were given and compared them to the
MAA (maximum allowed amount). While we were determining the amount of ammonium ions
(NH4+), nitrate ions (NO3-) and nitride ions (NO2-) we helped ourselves with the reagents from
the briefcase for water analysis. We mixed the reagents with samples of dispossessed water in
the smaller bottles and with the included color scale determined the quantity of said ions.
Slovenia, Planica
After the sample analysis we discussed the results and determined the pollution level. We
compared it to our predictions which we quoted earlier and came to almost identical results.
Places, where we took water samples
Measurements, Data Processing, Results and Conclusion
We extracted the samples on two different spots. The first extraction point was Zelenci, where
we expected to get a pure water sample. The second extraction point was a pond, whose sample
was not clear; therefore we predicted that this water was slightly polluted. There was also the
possibility of incorrect sampling because we could not reach the appropriate distance (1 meter
away from the bank). Thus we took the sample from the surface and half a meter from the bank.
While sampling, we predicted that the water would be pure and reach all standards. The samples
did not show any extraordinary signs of pollution or effects of foreign substances. The color was
neutral, which pointed out, that the water was pure and there was no pollution.
We found out that both water samples were fully clear of pollution, because none of the value
exceeded the allowed amounts. The results were expected due to the protected environment and
large distances that separated it from civilization.
CHEMICAL WATER ANALYSIS (Zelenci)
Unit
Reading
MAA
ammonium ions (NH4+)
mg/l
0,2
0,5
nitrate ions (NO3-)
mg/l
10
50
nitrite ions (NO2-)
mg/l
0,02
0,1
phosphate ions (PO43-)
mg/l
iron ions (Fe2+, Fe3+)
mg/l
oxygen
mg/l
total callousness
°d
carbonate callousness
°e / mg/l
pH
6,95
8
6,5 – 9,5
CHEMICAL WATER ANALYSIS (pond)
Unit
Reading
MAA
ammonium ions (NH4+)
mg/l
0,2
0,5
nitrate ions (NO3-)
mg/l
25
50
nitrite ions (NO2-)
mg/l
0,02
0,1
phosphate ions (PO43-)
mg/l
iron ions (Fe2+, Fe3+)
mg/l
oxygen
mg/l
total callousness
°d
carbonate callousness
°e / mg/l
pH
6,95
8
6,5 – 9,5
Conclusions, Comments and Answered Questions
Based on the measurements we found out that the water in Zelenci is completely clean and
appropriate for drinking.
The sample form the pond is slightly polluted and therefore not appropriate for consumption.
However, we predict that the water under the surface is slightly cleaner.
QUESTIONS
1. Explain why it is most appropriate to execute both the chemical and biological analysis at the same
time.
Because the chemical analysis shows the current condition of waterway and the
biological analysis the long-term condition, therefore they complement each other.
2. Why is the description of the extraction point considered valuable data, while explaining the
results?
Because of the effect that circumstances can have on water quality (coniferous forest =
higher water acidity…).
3. List some examples of measurements where you got qualitative and some, where you got
quantitative data. Which are more reliable? Justify your answer.
We got qualitative data while describing the vicinity and appearance of the water (water
plant-life, clearance…) and quantitative while chemically analyzing the samples where
we obtained precise measurements (pH value, collusiveness of the water). The
quantitative data is more reliable as it tells us the precise value.
4.
Which concentrations of individual parameters (NH4+, NO3-, NO2-, PO43+), that you have been
measuring with chemical water analysis can be increased? Why? What is the source of such
substances in the water?
Because of external factors e.g. urbanization, the bank, fauna and flora, as well as the
proper and improper extraction of the sample.
5. Which quality classes of water are known?
We know four of them; I. perfectly clean water, II. slightly polluted water, III. highly
polluted water and IV. completely polluted water.
6. How do we properly extract a sample that we wish to test?
According to the rules, the sample must be taken 1 meter away from the bank and half a
meter below the surface. This prevents the effects of other factors, which could provide
us with incorrect data. The sample must be taken with a clean bottle to prevent the water
mixing with foreign objects.
Sources and Literature
-http://www2.arnes.si/~fperdi/VKI_3.html, 1. 10. 2013
-http://www.kii3.ntf.uni-lj.si/analchemvoc2/file.php/1/html/slo/SPEKTRA/okoljske2.htm, 1. 10. 2013
-http://www2.arnes.si/~breber1/zg/Analiza_voda/dobnik_potocnik_ribnik07.pdf, 1. 10. 2013
-http://www.jablaniskadolina.si/vodamenebriga/aktivnosti/pomen-prisotnosti-kemijskih-parametrov-vvodi/144, 1. 10. 2013
Attachments:
-Dictionary of concepts
-Register list, Zelenci
-Register list, mlaka
Glossary of Terms
ammonium ions (NH4+) -
Ammonium is greatly dissolvable in water and if it reacts with
water we get ammonium ions (NH4+), which we define by water
testing. High amounts of ammonium are consequences of
communal, agrarian and industrial pollution. Concentrations in
subterranean and surface water is commonly below 0,2 mg/l, in
anaerobic conditions they can be above 3 mg/l. We can find it in
drinking water even after the disinfection with chloramines; it can
even migrate from concrete pipes. It can even tell us that the water
was in recent contact with dissolving organic matters (e.g. animal
droppings)
nitrate ions (NO3-) -
They are a sign of water being polluted with sewage or that the rain
is washing them off naturally (manure) or artificially (fertilizers)
composted ground. Industrial waste waters also contain them.
Increased concentrations can lead to increased amounts of algae
blooming which leads to low oxygen levels in water. They are also
the cause of stomach cancer.
nitrite ions (NO2-) -
Nitrites are extremely poisonous as they can be the reason for many
cancer infections. They appear in the process of organism
dissolution and are often present in meat additives, especially in
fast food.
phosphate ions (PO43-) -
Phosphates are a common ingredients of detergents, fertilizers and
soaps.
iron ions (Fe2+, Fe3+) -
Iron is one of the most frequently found elements in earths’ crust.
In many natural waterways we can find it concentrations between
0,5 and 50 mg/l. In our tap water iron is mostly present because of
the corrosion of the pipeline system.
oxygen -
Oxygen in water is very important for all types of aerobic
organisms, especially for those, who contribute to the self-cleaning
process. Concentration of oxygen in water depends on the physical,
chemical and biochemical processes in water and can change
depending on the temperature, saltiness, photosynthetic activity of
primary productive organisms etc.
total callousness -
(lasting callousness or non-carbonic callousness), is the amount of
every dissolved type of salt in the water. The said salts are mostly
combine from calcium and magnesium.
carbonate callousness -
(temporary callousness), which represent carbonate acids (H2CO3)
carbonates, whose source is dissolution of carbonate dioxide (CO2)
in the water. Carbonate callousness also greatly affects the pH
value of water.
pH -
pH is a criterion for the concentration of hydroxide ions in a
solution..
MAA -
maximum allowed amount
Vernier LabQuest interface – an electronic device that helps us measure different attributes of
various factors.
We can also plug different gadgets and sensors in it, whih will
allow us to measure a specific event.
pH sensor -
it is a sensor of the LabQuest interface, which allows us to measure
the exact pH value. Before we start the procedure we must make
sure, the the sensor was stabilised in a special lyquid, otherwise we
could get faulty data.
temperature sensor -
another sensor for the LabQuest device. It can mesure temperature
in any given place at any given time.
.
EXTRACTION OF SAMPLE FROM THE ZELENCI SPRING
REGISTER LIST
SAMPLING POINT 2
Name and surname of the cataloguers:
Date:
Primož Centa, Matic Štrukelj, Gregor Trobec, 19.9.2013
Matic Mlinarič
Name of sampling point:
Site, altitude:
Zelenci
Zelenci reservoir, 837m
Extraction site description (position, industry and urbanization vicinity, ground, growth on the
banks…):
Its position was on a plain, the extraction of the sample was performed in a basin. There was no
urbanization in the vicinity. The water fauna was very developed. The banks were overgrown, The
main ingredient of the soil was calcium.
Water color:
Water scent:
Water clearness:
Transparent.
Neutral.
Very clear.
Water temperature:
Water pH level:
Pollution grade (if noticed):
5°C
8
Very clean.
CHEMICAL WATER ANALYSIS
Unit
Reading
MAA
ammonium ions (NH4+)
mg/l
0,2
0,5
nitrate ions (NO3-)
mg/l
10
50
nitrite ions (NO2-)
mg/l
0,02
0,1
phosphate ions (PO43-)
mg/l
iron ions (Fe2+, Fe3+)
mg/l
oxygen
mg/l
total callousness
°d
carbonate callousness
°e / mg/l
pH
6,95
8
6,5 – 9,5
EXTRACTION OF SAMPLE FROM THE POND
REGISTER LIST
SAMPLING POINT 1
Name and surname of the cataloguers:
Date:
Primož Centa, Matic Štrukelj, Gregor Trobec, 19.9.2013
Matic Mlinarič
Name of sampling point:
Site, altitude:
Pond
Tamar valley, 1050m
Extraction site description (position, industry and urbanization vicinity, ground, growth on the
banks…).
It lies on a plain, surrounded by forest and overgrown with grass. There is no urbanization in the
vicinity. The composition of the ground allows the pond to dry up.
Water color:
Water scent:
Water clearness:
Turbid yellow.
Scent of soil.
Slightly muddy.
Water temperature:
Water pH level:
Pollution grade (if noticed):
6°C
8
Slightly polluted.
CHEMICAL WATER ANALYSIS
Unit
Reading
MAA
ammonium ions (NH4+)
mg/l
0,2
0,5
nitrate ions (NO3-)
mg/l
25
50
nitrite ions (NO2-)
mg/l
0,02
0,1
phosphate ions (PO43-)
mg/l
iron ions (Fe2+, Fe3+)
mg/l
oxygen
mg/l
total callousness
°d
carbonate callousness
°e / mg/l
pH
6,95
8
6,5 – 9,5