What is one potential outcome from performing a sieve analysis on media?

• A. Determining the pH of the water
• B. Identifying the size distribution of particles
• C. Measuring the total dissolved solids
• D. Assessing turbidity levels

Answer: (B)

Performing a sieve analysis on media primarily focuses on identifying the size distribution of particles within that media. This process involves passing a sample through a series of sieves that have different mesh sizes. By doing this, one can separate particles based on their size and collect data regarding how much of the sample falls into various size categories. This information is critical in water treatment processes, as it helps in determining the effectiveness of filtration media and understanding how well it can capture and remove particles from water.

The other options do not relate directly to the outcomes of a sieve analysis. Determining the pH of water requires chemical testing techniques rather than physical separation based on size. Measuring total dissolved solids focuses on the mass of dissolved substances in water, which is quantified through different methods, such as filtration and conductivity measurements, rather than particle size. Assessing turbidity levels involves measuring the cloudiness of water, typically done with turbidity meters, and is related to the concentration of suspended particles but not specifically their size distribution.