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What are the examples of organic materials in water?

Published in Water Organic Contaminants 2 mins read

Water sources often contain various organic materials, which are compounds primarily composed of carbon atoms, often bonded with hydrogen. Examples based on the provided reference include several volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can be found in different water bodies.

These organic substances can originate from various sources, often linked to industrial or commercial activities. The reference specifically highlights several compounds and some of their typical applications.

Here are examples of organic materials found in water, as mentioned in the reference:

  • Benzene
  • Toluene
  • Xylene
  • Dichloroethane
  • Trichloroethylene
  • Tetrachloroethylene
  • 1,1,1-Trichloroethane
  • Carbon tetrachloride

Many of these compounds are recognized as VOCs, meaning they readily evaporate at room temperature. Their presence in water can be a concern depending on their concentration and potential health effects.

To further illustrate, the reference provides context on the uses of some of these substances:

Organic Material Common Use (as per reference)
Dichloroethane Used as solvents
Trichloroethylene Used in dry cleaning
Tetrachloroethylene Used in dry cleaning
1,1,1-Trichloroethane Used in dry cleaning
Carbon tetrachloride Used as a raw material for chlorofluorocarbons
Benzene, Toluene, Xylene Mentioned as VOCs found in water areas

Understanding the types of organic materials in water is crucial for water quality assessment and treatment processes.

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