What does the term "turbidity" refer to in water quality?

Turbidity refers to the cloudiness or haziness of water caused by the presence of suspended particles, such as silt, algae, or sediment. The measurement of turbidity is an important aspect of water quality assessments because it can significantly influence the survival of aquatic life, the effectiveness of disinfection processes, and the overall aesthetic quality of the water. High turbidity can indicate pollution or a disturbance in the water body, making it crucial for water treatment facilities to monitor and manage to ensure safe drinking water standards are met. Understanding turbidity helps in gauging the clarity of the water and the potential presence of contaminants that could affect human and ecosystem health.