What does turbidity refer to in terms of water quality?

Turbidity specifically refers to the cloudiness or haziness of water caused by the presence of suspended particles such as silt, algae, or other organic and inorganic materials. High turbidity levels can indicate pollution, affect water clarity, and impact aquatic life by blocking sunlight and disrupting ecosystems. Understanding turbidity is crucial for assessing water quality, as it can influence the effectiveness of disinfection processes, the health of aquatic organisms, and the overall aesthetic value of water bodies. In contrast, temperature, color, and hardness address different aspects of water quality and do not specifically describe the level of clarity or transparency of the water.