Which water quality indicator do operators have the greatest control over?

Operators typically have the greatest control over turbidity as it is directly influenced by practices within the water treatment process. Turbidity is a measure of how clear or cloudy water is, often caused by particles, sediments, or organisms suspended in the water. Treatment methods such as sedimentation, filtration, and coagulation can significantly reduce turbidity levels, giving operators the capability to manage and maintain it effectively.

In contrast, alkalinity is more of a natural characteristic of the water source and is influenced by the geological materials surrounding it, making it less controllable by operators. Temperature can also be affected by external factors, such as weather and seasonal changes, rather than by the treatment process itself. pH, while it can be adjusted through chemical additions, often requires careful monitoring and control as it can be sensitive to various factors, thus possibly making it less directly controllable compared to turbidity.

Overall, turbidity is more easily adjusted and managed within the confines of operational control, allowing operators to ensure the water meets quality standards more effectively.