Florida Drinking Water Operator "B" Practice Test

How much water is needed for a bac T sample?

1. 50 ml

2. 100 ml

3. 150 ml

4. 200 ml

The correct answer is: 100 ml

The correct answer indicates that 100 ml of water is needed for a bacteriological (bac T) sample. This volume is significant because it is a standard requirement in microbiological testing protocols to ensure accurate and reliable results when analyzing water samples for the presence of coliform bacteria and other pathogens. Using 100 ml allows for adequate representation of the water source, ensuring that the sample captures any contaminants that may be present. This volume balances the need for enough sample to detect microorganisms while also making it manageable for laboratory analysis. Different state agencies and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) often use this standard for bacteriological sampling procedures to maintain consistency in water quality testing across various systems and locations. Smaller volumes may not provide sufficient sample density to detect low concentrations of bacteria, while larger volumes can become impractical for collection and processing. Thus, 100 ml is established as a practical and effective standard for bacteriological sampling.