Sectors typically supplied with well-treated potable water in a public water-supply system (Select the most comprehensive correct option.)
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ADomestic (household) use
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BCommercial and industrial use
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CPublic and institutional uses (schools, hospitals, fire-fighting)
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DWastewater disposal
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EAll of the above except wastewater
Answer
Correct Answer: All of the above except wastewater
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Municipal potable water systems distribute treated water to a variety of consumers. Recognizing the principal use sectors helps in demand assessment and system design.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Treated water meets drinking-water standards.
- Distribution covers households, commerce/industry, and public/institutional facilities.
- Wastewater is collected separately via sewers and is not a consumer of potable supply.
Concept / Approach:Water-demand categories in planning include domestic, commercial/industrial, and public (municipal/institutional) components. Wastewater is an output from these uses and is conveyed to treatment, not a supply sector to which potable water is “delivered”.
Step-by-Step Reasoning:
Identify valid potable-water user classes: domestic, commercial/industrial, public services.Exclude wastewater, which represents effluent to be treated, not a user category.Select the comprehensive answer that includes all legitimate demand sectors and excludes wastewater.Verification / Alternative check:Standard water-works texts categorize demands precisely in these classes for per capita or unit-area projections.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- (a), (b), (c) are each partial truths but not comprehensive alone.
- (d) is incorrect—wastewater is not a “use” sector of treated water.
Common Pitfalls:Confusing wastewater (collection and treatment) with water-demand categories; they are different subsystems.
Final Answer:All of the above except wastewater