Which of the following is a characteristic of potable water?

Potable water is defined as water that is suitable for drinking and is free from disease-causing impurities. This characteristic is essential for public health, as it ensures that the water consumed does not contain pathogens or harmful contaminants that can lead to illness or disease. Safe drinking water must meet specific quality standards set by health organizations and regulatory authorities, ensuring that it is treated and monitored for safety.

The alternative choices present scenarios that are contrary to the properties of potable water. For instance, the presence of harmful bacteria or high chemical levels would disqualify water from being safe for drinking, reflecting contamination rather than potability. Likewise, water that is not safe for drinking cannot be classified as potable, as it fails to meet the safety criteria essential for human consumption. Hence, the defining feature of potable water is precisely its freedom from harmful impurities, making it safe for drinking.