What does the term "raw water" refer to?

The term "raw water" specifically refers to water that has not been treated or purified. It is the natural state of water sourced from various environments such as rivers, lakes, or groundwater. Utilizing raw water is common in various applications, including municipal water supply systems and agricultural irrigation, before any purification processes are applied.

In contrast, treated water refers to water that has undergone processes to remove contaminants, making it safe for consumption or specific uses. Potable water is another term for water that is safe to drink, implying that it has been treated to meet health standards. Water from industrial processes may include treated wastewater or byproducts from manufacturing, which do not fall under the definition of raw water. Therefore, understanding that "raw water" is untreated and unprocessed is essential for recognizing its role in the water treatment cycle.