What does “bacteriological testing” of water aim to determine?

Bacteriological testing of water specifically aims to determine the presence of harmful bacteria and pathogens. This type of testing is crucial because it assesses the microbiological quality of water, which directly impacts public health. The presence of pathogenic microorganisms can indicate contamination by waste or unhygienic conditions, leading to diseases such as gastroenteritis, cholera, and typhoid fever, among others.

Testing for bacteria usually involves methods like culturing samples on selective media, using molecular techniques such as PCR, or employing rapid test kits to identify specific pathogens. Understanding the levels and types of bacteria present in water sources is essential for ensuring that water is safe for consumption and complies with health regulations.

While the other options mention important water quality parameters, they do not pertain to bacteriological testing. For instance, testing for chemicals, turbidity, and pH levels involves different methodologies and serves distinct purposes within water quality analysis.