The EPA has determined that the maximum safe level of lead ion in drinking water is 15 ppb. If a sample of tap water has a lead ion concentration of 0.016 ppm, what is the concentration of the lead ion in ppb, and is the water safe to drink? Assume the density of the solution is 1.00 g/mL. A)160 ppb, not safe B)16 ppb, not safe C)1600 ppb, not safe D)0.16 ppb, safe E)1.6 × 10^-6 ppm, safe

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To convert parts per million (ppm) to parts per billion (ppb), multiply by 1000. Therefore, the concentration of lead ion in ppb is 16 ppb (0.016 ppm x 1000). Since the concentration is below the maximum safe level of 15 ppb, the water is not safe to drink.

The EPA Has Determined That the Maximum Safe Level of Lead