The TDS (total dissolved solids) test is conducted using which of the following?

The TDS (total dissolved solids) test is predominantly conducted using a meter, which measures the conductivity of water. This method operates on the principle that the more dissolved solids present in the water, the higher its conductivity. The meter provides a direct reading of the TDS level in parts per million (ppm), enabling swift and accurate assessments of water quality.

Using a meter is advantageous because it allows for real-time measurements and can be more precise than other methods. For example, while a chemical solution can be useful in determining specific types of contaminants, it does not effectively measure total dissolved solids. Similarly, visual color guides and filtration systems serve different purposes in water quality analysis and are not designed to measure TDS directly. A visual guide may help in estimation but lacks the precision required for accurate TDS readings. A filtration system can separate solids from liquids but does not quantify the level of dissolved solids. Thus, the use of a meter stands out as the most efficient and reliable method for TDS testing.