Quality of Surface Waters Lab Report

Amanda Corneau

07/20/2024
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Abstract
An abstract is generally written after the lab has been completed. In this section, write a one or
two-paragraph summary related to the lab activities that were completed. The abstract should
include the following elements:
 Objective: the main point or central question of the lab
 Methods: a brief statement on what was done during the lab
 Results: a brief statement on what was found
 Discussion: a brief statement of what was concluded

[Insert abstract here]

Introduction
Provide a brief summary paragraph that includes the following elements:
 Background: Why is this topic (and the results of the lab activities) of interest to
environmental scientists?
 Purpose: How are the techniques performed in this lab used to evaluate environmental
conditions?
To ensure meaningful and relevant results, this study followed a systematic approach to sample
collection and testing. Water samples were collected from 2 local waterways. Each site was
selected based on its importance and impact on the community, including industrial, residential
and agricultural areas.

Materials and Methods

Describe the experimental procedures in enough detail that someone else could repeat the
experiment. Include the following elements:
 Materials: Describe the materials and equipment used in the lab
 Steps: Briefly explain the steps taken to perform your lab and collect your data
 Calculations: Describe all mathematical equations and statistical tests used

2 LaMotte pH strips ® Phosphate TesTabs®

Sample comparison chart Plastic pipet
Collection bottle, 125 mL
Thermometer
2 Conical tubes 15 mL
Graduated cylinder 100 mL
Permanent marker
Aluminum foil
timer
GPS-enabled phone
Cooler with ice

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This section provides a step-by-step guide on how to conduct temperature measurement and
various water quality tests in a field setting. The first activity involves measuring water
temperature using a submerged thermometer and recording the data. The second activity entails
collecting a water sample in a container and preparing it for further tests.

The pH test involves using pH paper to determine the acidity or alkalinity of the water sample
collected. The results are then compared to a pH color chart and recorded. The phosphate test
requires filling a tube with water sample, adding a Phosphorous TesTab, and waiting for the
color to develop, which is then compared to a phosphate color chart.

The nitrate test involves adding a Nitrate TesTab to a water sample, wrapping the tube in
aluminum foil, waiting for the color to develop, and comparing it to a nitrate color chart. Lastly,
the turbidity test requires filling a graduated cylinder with sample water and using a black and
white pattern on a chart to determine turbidity levels.

All tests should be conducted while wearing gloves, goggles, and a lab apron for safety. The
results of each test should be recorded in Data Table 1 for analysis. These tests provide valuable
information about the water quality of the sample site, which can help in understanding and
monitoring environmental conditions. By following the detailed instructions for each activity,
accurate and reliable results can be obtained for further analysis and interpretation.
Results

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Data Table1: Chemical and Physical Water Quality

Elevation
Test Site Temp (oC) pH Phosphate (ppm)
(m)

Lat:
Cypress Creek 30.037553 36° 7pH 2ppm
7
Lat:
Stream 30.041538 33° 7pH 3ppm
Long:

Water
Volume
Nitrate Turbidity
Test Site for
(ppm) (NTU)
Turbidity
(mL)
29NT
Cypress Creek 0ppm 100mL
U
29NT
Stream 30ppm 100mL
U

Photos
Include photos from your pH, nitrate, and phosphate tests. These photos should show a
comparison of your samples to the Sample Comparison Charts.

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Conclusion
Explain your results and the significance of those results. Include the following elements:
 Summarize important observations and findings
 For each activity, describe the patterns or relationships you observed
 Explain any agreements, contradictions or exceptions
 Explain the broader implications of your findings (big picture)

References

The analysis of two water samples revealed several key patterns and relationships. Both samples

showed a neutral pH, indicating a healthy and stable aquatic environment. The difference in

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phosphate and nitrate levels between the samples suggests different sources or types of pollution

affecting each water source in varying ways. Despite similar turbidity measurements, the sources

may have different materials or sediments due to environmental conditions or land use

differences.

When comparing these results to other environmental studies, some agreements and

contradictions emerge. The high nitrate level in one sample suggests contamination from

excessive discharge or agricultural runoff, while the lack of nitrates in the other sample indicates

a cleaner environment or effective natural filtration. The consistency of turbidity despite the high

concentration of nitrates in one sample raises questions about potential unique conditions at the

sampling site.

The implications of these findings are significant for environmental and public health. High

nitrate levels can lead to eutrophication, oxygen depletion in water, and harm to aquatic life.

Public health risks include methemoglobinemia in infants and contamination of drinking water

sources. Proper water quality management, monitoring of pH, turbidity, and nutrient levels, and

proactive measures to reduce pollution from agriculture and wastewater treatment plants are

crucial.

In summary, the study highlights the delicate balance of the aquatic environment, the potential

disruptions caused by human activities, and the importance of environmental protection. By

understanding and addressing these issues, healthy ecosystems and public health can be

safeguarded.

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Include all references in this section (APA format)

Post-Lab Questions
1. Fertilizers applied to fields and crops contain nutrients that plants need, such as nitrogen,
phosphorus, and potassium. What happens when rain washes those water-soluble nitrates
and phosphates from fertilizers into surface waters?
Fertilizers in water lead to harmful algal blooms and water issues.

2. Surface water pH is an important indicator of stream health. List three causes that can
lead to acidic surface water.
Various factors, such as industrial waste discharge, agriculture runoff, urban waste, excessive
rainfall, and the breakdown of organic matter like plants and algae, can contribute to the acidity
of water and lower its pH level.

3. You go out to your local stream to a location downstream of a beaver dam and notice the
water is slow moving, brown, and not a lot of aquatic vegetation is present. What water
quality tests might you use to determine the condition of the stream? Explain your
reasons as to why you chose each test.
Testing for turbidity, pH, phosphates/nitrates, and dissolved oxygen is crucial for monitoring
river health. High turbidity can block sunlight needed by plants and algae, while fluctuations in
pH and nutrient levels can harm aquatic life and accelerate eutrophication, ultimately leading to
low dissolved oxygen levels and endangering wildlife.

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