Question

1. ______ apply to public water systems and, in the judgment of the epa, are necessary to protect the public welfare or for public acceptance of the drinking water. the rule means the maximum permissible level of a contaminant that is delivered to the free-flowing outlet of the ultimate user of a public water system. this maximum is not enforceable under epa, but recommended: however, in some states, these levels are enforceable by law.

a. maximum contaminant levels
b. maximum contaminant level goals
c. secondary maximum contaminant levels
d. unregulated contaminant levels

1. ______ are important factors in public acceptance and confidence in a public water system. states are encouraged to implement smcls so that the public will not be driven to obtain drinking water from potentially lower-quality, higher risk sources. many states have chosen to enforce primary and secondary contaminant levels to ensure that the consumer is provided with the best quality water available.

a. biological contaminants
b. chemical contaminants
c. aesthetic qualities
d. radiologic contaminants

1. although ______ is regulated as a secondary contaminant because precipitates of the metal can cause cloudy-looking water, this contaminant may interfere with absorption of fluoride in the gastrointestinal tract and may decrease the absorption of calcium, iron, and cholesterol.

Explanation:

1. Secondary Maximum Contaminant Levels (SMCLs) are EPA-recommended (not federally enforceable, but can be state-enforceable) standards focused on public acceptance and welfare related to drinking water aesthetics and non-health effects, matching the description.
2. The text references SMCLs, which address aesthetic qualities (taste, odor, appearance) that drive public confidence in water systems, making this the correct match.
3. Aluminum is classified as a secondary contaminant; its precipitates cause cloudy water, and it interferes with absorption of fluoride, calcium, iron, and cholesterol as described.

Answer:

1. c. Secondary Maximum Contaminant Levels
2. c. Aesthetic qualities
3. Aluminum