What does an increase in TDS indicate about water quality?

An increase in Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) indicates a potential rise in the concentration of dissolved solids in water. TDS is a measure of all organic and inorganic substances that are present in water, which includes minerals, salts, and metals. When TDS levels rise, it suggests that more of these substances are present in the water, which can affect its quality and safety for consumption and ecosystem health.

Additionally, high TDS levels can lead to various implications for water treatment processes and can potentially indicate issues such as contamination or imbalances in water chemistry. While other options might suggest alternative conditions in water quality, they do not directly relate to the concept represented by TDS. Increased TDS does not directly correlate with a decrease in pH, improved taste, or higher oxygen content, making the understanding of what TDS signifies crucial for assessing water quality accurately.