7 The EPA has determined that the maximum safe level of lead

7. The EPA has determined that the maximum safe level of lead ion in drinking water is 15 ppb. If a sample of tap water has a lead ion concentration of 0.016 ppm, what is the concentration of the lead ion in ppb, and is the water safe to drink? Assume the density of the solution is 1.00 g/mL

Solution

Since 1ppm = 1000 ppb

So, 0.16 ppm of lead = 0.16 * 1000 ppb of lead

Or, 0.16 ppm of lead = 16 ppb of lead

So, this comes out be greater than the safe level of lead ie 15 ppb.

Therefore, water is not safe to drink as concentration of lead is above the safe level, which can cause harmful effects in the body.