Determination of Iron Content in the Drinking Water of Patnatown, Bihar: Implications for Water Quality and Public Health

Abstract

Iron presents significant challenges in water supply systems. Comprising at least 5 percent of the Earths crust, iron is recognized as one of the most abundant elements within terrestrial resources. In aqueous environments, iron predominantly exists in two states: the soluble ferrous ion and the insoluble ferric ion. Access to potable water is a fundamental human requirement. Fluctuations in the concentration of minerals in water can render it unsuitable for human consumption, necessitating regular assessments. The objective of the present study was to quantify the iron content in water samples collected from the vicinity of Patna and to evaluate compliance with the standards established by the World Health Organization (WHO). The detection of trace amounts of Fe2+ in the water samples was facilitated by the use of 1,10-Phenanthroline, which forms a distinctive orange-red complex. Hydroxylamine hydrochloride was employed to reduce Fe3+ to the Fe2+ state, while sodium acetate buffer was utilized to stabilize the pH at 3.5. The spectrophotometric analysis was conducted at a wavelength of 508 nm to achieve optimal absorbance. A maximum absorbance of 0.016 AU (Absorbance Units) was observed in hot water samples from Phulwari Sharif, with concentrations ranging from 0.14 ppm to 0.24 ppm, which aligns with the WHO standards. The pH levels of the water samples were found to be between 6.70 and 6.85, indicating suitability for consumption.