What is the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for nitrate in drinking water?

What is the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for nitrate in drinking water?

• A. 5 mg/L
• B. 10 mg/L
• C. 15 mg/L
• D. 20 mg/L

Answer: (B)

The Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for nitrate in drinking water is set at 10 mg/L. This standard is established to protect public health, as high levels of nitrate can lead to serious health issues, particularly for infants and pregnant women. Nitrate can interfere with the ability of blood to carry oxygen, leading to a condition commonly referred to as "blue baby syndrome." Regulatory bodies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) use this threshold to ensure that water supplies remain safe for consumption. When nitrate levels exceed this limit, water utilities may need to take action to reduce contamination to prevent adverse health effects. Understanding the MCL is critical for water treatment operators as it guides the monitoring and treatment processes in place to keep water safe for public consumption.

The Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for nitrate in drinking water is set at 10 mg/L. This standard is established to protect public health, as high levels of nitrate can lead to serious health issues, particularly for infants and pregnant women. Nitrate can interfere with the ability of blood to carry oxygen, leading to a condition commonly referred to as "blue baby syndrome."

Regulatory bodies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) use this threshold to ensure that water supplies remain safe for consumption. When nitrate levels exceed this limit, water utilities may need to take action to reduce contamination to prevent adverse health effects. Understanding the MCL is critical for water treatment operators as it guides the monitoring and treatment processes in place to keep water safe for public consumption.