What is the purpose of using coliform bacteria in water testing?

The use of coliform bacteria in water testing is primarily focused on indicating the presence of pathogens. Coliform bacteria, particularly fecal coliforms, are a group of microorganisms found in the environment, including in soils and the intestines of warm-blooded animals. Their presence in water is a strong indicator of potential contamination by fecal matter, which can harbor harmful pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria, and protozoa that can cause diseases.

Monitoring for coliform bacteria is crucial because it provides a relatively quick and straightforward method to assess the microbiological safety of water. If coliform bacteria are detected in a water sample, it suggests that there is a possibility of more harmful organisms being present, prompting further investigation and action to ensure public health safety. This aspect of water quality testing is particularly relevant for drinking water sources, beach water quality, and recreational waters, where human exposure could lead to health risks.

The other choices, while important parameters in water quality testing, do not pertain to the role of coliforms. Specifically, measuring water hardness relates to the concentration of calcium and magnesium ions, checking for chemical contamination involves assessing specific pollutants or toxins, and assessing pH levels refers to the acidity or alkalinity of the water, none