Minerals that can be found in water are usually infused into the water through soil erosion. Since water is a solvent, the passage of water between or over the minerals in question degrades the minerals that will dissolve in the water.
The most common dissolved minerals found in water are sodium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate and sulfate. Variations in concentration and minerals found in a body of water vary depending on the soils in which the water body is located.
- To learn more about the influence of soils on surrounding water bodies, we invite you to consult this article:
Generally speaking, the concentrations of dissolved minerals in a sample is referred to as total dissolved solids (TDS) and is expressed in PPM or mg/L. The measurements taken to identify the concentration in TDS do not take into account the type of minerals, they will only express the quantity of dissolved matter in the sample.
Hardness
Water hardness is caused by the presence of calcium and magnesium in water, but not other minerals. To learn more about what hardness is, visit this article.
The impact on health
It is recognized that the presence of minerals in water is not dangerous for human consumption. However, concentrations of 1,000mg/L are considered too high to be safe for consumption.
Despite its potability, water with high total dissolved solids may have unpleasant odors or an unattractive color.
Finally, although the concentration of certain minerals may be beneficial to the surrounding floral life, too much TDS may also destroy it.
In short, we hope this short article has enlightened you on what minerals in water are all about. If you would like to learn more, please visit our blog or our FAQ or ask us questions.