Humber/Ontario Real Estate Course 4 Exam Practice

Buyer Ronan's purchase of a rural home is contingent upon a satisfactory water test. The local public health authority's analysis reports fecal coliform presence. What should be concluded?

1. Ronan should not be concerned; minor fecal coliform is normal.

2. Disinfecting the well with chlorine offers an immediate, lasting solution.

3. There has been some recent sewage contamination.

4. The water is safe to drink, but Ronan should investigate the problem further.

5. The water quality is compliant with health standards.

6. Fecal coliform presence indicates a well-functioning septic system.

The correct answer is: There has been some recent sewage contamination.

The conclusion that there has been some recent sewage contamination is grounded in the meaning and implications of detecting fecal coliform in a water sample. Fecal coliform bacteria are typically indicative of fecal contamination occurring in water sources. Their presence can suggest that pathogens or other contaminants from human or animal waste may be present, posing a risk to human health. When a water test shows fecal coliform, it raises significant concerns about the safety and quality of the water, suggesting that there may have been recent issues, such as a malfunctioning septic system or other forms of sewage contamination that have affected the groundwater quality. The identification of these bacteria necessitates further investigation and remediation to ensure the water is safe for consumption. Other options do not accurately represent the seriousness of the fecal coliform presence. For instance, stating that minor fecal coliform is normal dismisses the health risks associated with any level of fecal contamination. Suggesting that chlorine disinfection provides an immediate, lasting solution overlooks the root cause of the contamination. Additionally, claiming that the water is safe to drink or compliant with health standards contradicts the implication of fecal coliform presence, which typically indicates potential health hazards. Asserting that fecal coliform presence indicates a well