The commonly measured physical characteristics are temperature, colour, taste, odour and turbidity. These can be subjectively evaluated through use of our five senses. Quantitative measurements require special instruments to accurately measure temperature (ºC), dissolved oxygen (DO) and the conventional variables: pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), and total suspended sediment (TSS). Taste and odour tests typically require panels of specially trained individuals in a controlled environment to obtain reproducible results.
Physical characteristics are explored further through the following subjects:
The Steelpoort River, South Africa; a river under pressure from development.
Source: Mac 2008
( click to enlarge )
