Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). Class C Water License Exam

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Hard water is primarily characterized by high levels of:

Iron
Calcium and magnesium
Sodium
Potassium

The correct answer is: Calcium and magnesium

Hard water is primarily characterized by high levels of calcium and magnesium. These two minerals are significant contributors to water hardness. When water passes through soil and rock, it can dissolve minerals, which may include calcium carbonate (lime) and magnesium carbonate. The presence of these minerals in substantial quantities results in hard water, which can lead to several issues, such as scale buildup in pipes and appliances and reduced effectiveness of soap and detergents. In contrast, while iron may contribute to water quality issues, it does not primarily define water hardness. Sodium and potassium are different types of minerals that do not play a significant role in hard water characteristics. Sodium is more associated with saltwater or softening processes, while potassium is less common in water hardness discussions. Therefore, high levels of calcium and magnesium are the defining factors for hard water.