Question

Identify what constitutes the defining characteristic of potable water.
in paragraph

Answer 1

Potable water is defined primarily by its safety for human consumption: it must be free, or contain only acceptably low concentrations, of biological pathogens, toxic chemicals, radiological substances and physical contaminants that could cause illness or long‑term harm. In practice this means potable water meets health‑based standards for microbiological quality (absence of disease‑causing bacteria, viruses and protozoa), chemical limits (e.g., for lead, nitrate, pesticides), and acceptable taste, odor and clarity as set by public‑health guidelines such as those from the WHO or national regulators. Appearance alone does not guarantee potability — the defining characteristic is that the water will not pose a health risk when used for drinking or food preparation.