FIELD WORK

Temperature

Temperature is very important to water quality. Temperature affects the amount of dissolved oxygen in the water, the rate of photosynthesis by aquatic plants, and the sensitivity of organisms to toxic wastes, parasites and disease. Thermal pollution, the discharge of heated water from industrial operations, for example, can cause temperature changes that threaten the balance of aquatic systems.

Use of the thermometer

The two thermometers have an adhesive back. Adhere them to the kit container or another object to make grasping them easier. The temperature is indicated by a liquid crystal number on the Low Range thermometer and a green display on the High Range thermometer.

Temperature Procedure

  • Wear protective gloves. At each site, place the thermometer four inches below the water surface for one minute.

  • Remove the thermometer from the water, read the temperature and record the temperature as degrees Celsius.

  • Repeat the test approximately 1 km upstream as soon as possible.

  • The difference between the temperature upstream and the temperature at the sampling site is the change in temperature.

     

     


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