What is defined as water that is free from impurities that can cause disease?

Potable water is defined as water that is safe for human consumption and free from impurities that can cause disease. It meets health-based standards established by regulatory bodies to ensure it does not contain harmful bacteria, viruses, or chemicals that could pose a health risk. This type of water is treated and tested to guarantee its safety for drinking and cooking.

In contrast, tap water, which is usually supplied by municipalities, may or may not meet these safety standards depending on the source and treatment processes used. Irrigation water is primarily used for agricultural purposes and is not necessarily treated for human consumption, meaning it could contain harmful pathogens. Distilled water is purified through the process of distillation, removing most impurities, but it is not specifically labeled as potable unless it meets safe drinking water standards. Therefore, while distilled water is very clean, it does not automatically qualify as potable unless it adheres to the relevant health regulations.