Which of the following techniques is used for reducing the total dissolved solids (TDS) in the water?

(a) Osmosis

(b) Ion exchange

(c) Distillation

(d) Both b and c

(d) Both b and c

Both ion exchange and distillation are effective techniques used for reducing the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in water.¹

• Ion Exchange: This process works by passing water through a resin that is charged with desirable ions (like sodium).² Unwanted dissolved solids, such as calcium and magnesium (which cause water hardness), are "exchanged" for the sodium ions, effectively removing them from the water.
• Distillation: This is a purification process that mimics the natural water cycle.³Water is boiled, turning it into steam and leaving behind the dissolved solids (like salts and minerals).⁴The pure water vapor is then collected and cooled, condensing it back into a liquid state with very low TDS.⁵

Another common method for reducing TDS is Reverse Osmosis, which is different from regular osmosis (option a). Reverse osmosis uses high pressure to force water through a special membrane that blocks dissolved solids from passing through.⁶