Which parameter is commonly used to indicate the clarity of water?

Turbidity is a critical parameter used to indicate the clarity of water because it measures the amount of suspended particles within the water column that scatter light. High turbidity levels can suggest the presence of pollutants, sediment, or microorganisms, all of which can hinder water quality and affect aquatic life. By assessing turbidity, water operators can gauge water quality and safety for various uses, from drinking water to recreational activities.

Other parameters, such as pH level, dissolved oxygen, and temperature, serve important functions in assessing water quality, but they do not specifically measure clarity. The pH level reveals the acidity or alkalinity of the water, dissolved oxygen is essential for aquatic organisms' respiratory processes, and temperature can influence the solubility of gases and metabolic rates in organisms. However, when it comes to clarity, turbidity is the definitive measurement, providing insights into the visual quality and potential health of the water body.