What does total dissolved solids (TDS) measure?

Total dissolved solids (TDS) refers to the measure of the combined content of all inorganic and organic substances that are dissolved in water. This includes minerals, salts, metals, cations, anions, and other compounds that are not in a solid state but are present in solution. TDS is an important water quality parameter as it can affect water taste, health, and the potential for corrosivity of pipes and fixtures.

Understanding TDS is essential in various contexts, such as assessing water quality for drinking, agriculture, and industrial use. A higher TDS level can indicate the potential presence of various dissolved substances, some of which may be beneficial and others potentially harmful. For instance, while certain minerals can be healthy, excessive levels might indicate pollution or poor water quality, prompting further evaluation of the water source.

The other options provided do not accurately capture the definition or measurement of TDS. For example, measuring color and odor pertains more to sensory characteristics rather than the particulate composition of the water. The total volume of water in an aquifer relates to hydrology and groundwater resources, not to dissolved solids in water. Lastly, while TDS can indicate the presence of contaminants, it does not specifically measure them. Rather, it provides a broader view