Why might water intended for different uses have different allowable amounts of ‘things’ that can be in it?

Answer 1

The allowable amounts of contaminants in water are determined by the intended use of the water. For example, water intended for drinking must meet strict quality standards to ensure it is safe for consumption. On the other hand, water intended for industrial purposes may have higher allowable levels of certain contaminants, as they may not pose a health risk but could impact the effectiveness of industrial processes. Additionally, water intended for agricultural uses may have different allowable levels of contaminants based on the specific needs of crops or livestock being watered. Ultimately, different uses of water require different levels of purity to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the water for its intended purpose.