Which of the following best describes potable water?

Potable water is defined as water that is safe for human consumption, meaning it is free from pollution and contaminants. This water meets established health standards and regulations that ensure it does not pose any risk to human health. The characteristics of potable water include clarity, absence of harmful bacteria, viruses, and chemical pollutants, making it suitable for drinking, cooking, and other personal uses. In contrast, water with high mineral content may not always be safe to drink, polluted water is clearly unsafe, and while water treated with chemicals could potentially be made safe, it does not inherently define potable water. Thus, the definition of potable water revolves around its safety and cleanliness for consumption.