Comparative Analysis of Water Samples from Three Different Sources (A Case Study of Bosso, Minna Niger State)

Abstract

This study assesses the level of potability of water samples harvested from different sources roof in Bosso LGA in Niger state, Nigeria. To achieve this goal a physiochemical analysis was carried out on three water samples collected from galvanized iron roofing sheets, a well and a borehole. The harvested water samples were analyzed for major physical and chemical quality parameters as recommended by World Health Organization (WHO) and Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ) and results compared. The results showed for pH (7.2, 6.6 and 7.5), alkalinity (48.7, 52, and 81.1), electrical conductivity (176, 104, and 230), total dissolved solids (88, 52, and 115), total hardness (55, 39, and 93), colour (4.0, 8.4, and 3.3), Temperature (23.2, 23.2, and 23.2), Zn (6, 4 and -), sulphate (0.9, 29, and 26), turbidity (2.1, 6.7 and 1.8), iron (0.14, 0.21, and 0.03) and TSS (0, 2.8 and 0) for galvanized iron roof sheet, well and borehole respectively. Some of the results observed met the recommended standards for drinking. Thus, rainwater from these rural settlements can be harvested and stored domestic purpose. Similarly, significant differences exist amongst the water samples collected from the three sources. Thus, rainwater from these sources should be purified before consumption.