METHODS OF ESTIMATION OF IONIC STRENGTH IN HAND DUG WELL WATER OF IKOLE-EKITI EKITI STATE NIGERIA

ABSTRACT

The estimation of ionic strength and its activities in well water source within the vicinity of Ikole local government Ekiti state was conducted. A total of fifteen ( 15) water samples were collected from five locations (Al, A2, A3, Bl, B2, B3, Cl, C2, C3, DI, D2, D3, El, E2 and E3) from the study area. These samples were examined for major cations and major anions using Atomic Absorption Spectro-photometer (210 / 211 YGP (AAS)) and Technicon Auto analyzer AAII system respectively. From the result, it was deduced that the Electrical conductivity, temperature, pH, major cations and anions of the water samples were all within the WHO (2008) acceptable permissible limit. The ionic strength was calculated using the major anions and cations. The calculated ionic strength was graphically plotted against determine electrical conductivity to obtain linear regression equation which is used as new model of determining ionic strength (Predicted ionic strength). The result obtained from the comparison of the linear regression and coefficient of determination between ionic strength and Griffin and Jurinak, Marion and Babcock and Gillman and Bell only occurred at 8% except for Predicted ionic strength whose coefficient of determination is 4%. This proves that it is difficult to determine ionic strength from electrical conductivity variables obtained. This is in contrast to reports of excellent relationship between ionic strength and electrical conductivity. The lack of significant relationship between ionic strength and electrical conductivity is probably caused by errors in measurement of electrical conductivity of these water samples. However, Ca concentration appears to be the major factor responsible for variation in the ionic strength between samples level, ionic strength can be predicted by Ca concentration up to 92% in the water samples. Institutions around the study area should be equipped with the necessary experimental equipment and laboratory for research purposes and also to maintain the integrity of the samples.