What are suspended solids?

Suspended solids refer to tiny particles in water that remain suspended and do not easily settle at the bottom due to their size and density. These particles can include a variety of materials, such as silt, clay, organic debris, and microorganisms, which gives water its turbidity. The presence of suspended solids can significantly affect water quality; they can provide nutrients for bacteria, obstruct water flow, and interfere with disinfection processes.

In contrast, large chunks of organic matter are generally too large to be classified as suspended solids, as they tend to settle out of water over time. Substances that settle at the bottom of tanks are often referred to as settled solids or sludge, which is distinct from the definition of suspended solids. Dissolved minerals are particles that are so small they dissolve in the water, forming a solution rather than remaining as separate, suspended entities. Thus, the correct understanding of suspended solids focuses on their ability to remain dispersed in water rather than settling or dissolving.