What Is the White Layer on Water?

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In summary, the customer is experiencing a problem with a white oily layer appearing on top of their boiled or cooked water. The layer also hardens and sticks to the walls of the pot and container when the water is left to cool. They have used a sand filter to try and remove it, but it still appears. The expert suggests that it is most likely a layer of oil and can be removed using a paper filter. However, they are unsure if it is actually oil or something else. Another expert suggests that it is most likely calcium bicarbonate, which turns into calcium carbonate (limescale) when heated. This means the water is high in minerals, but may require more soap and frequent replacement of appliances.
  • #1
mathsTKK
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I met a customer who face a problem in the water quality in the house. The water supply is clean and clear but when it is boiled or cooked, a white oily layer floats on top of the water. When the water is left cooled, the white layer hardens and sticks on the wall of the pot and container. The customer claims that a sand filter has been used to filter the water but the white layer still appear. Currently, I predict that's actually a layer of oil and I can use a paper layer filter to remove the oil. However, I wonder whether that's really oil layer or something else. Can someone tell me what's actually the white layer in the water? and what's the solution to the problem?

Thank you very much^^
 
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  • #3
Thank you russ_watters^^ But can I ask why the white layer only appear when the water is heated? I still don't understand why this situation occurs...

Anyway, thank you once again and I hope for more replies soon^^
 
  • #4
In solution it's Calcium bicarbonate, when you heat it the reaction forms calcium carbonate (limescale)
Ca(HCO3)2(aq) → CO2(g) + H2O(l) + CaCO3(s)

It means your water tastes nice and will have lots of useful minerals in it - at the cost of using a bit more soap and needing a new kettle every few years.
 
  • #5


I would suggest conducting some tests on the white layer to determine its composition. This could involve using a pH test strip to check the acidity or alkalinity of the layer, as well as conducting a solubility test to see if it dissolves in water or other solvents. This can help us determine if it is indeed an oily layer or if it is something else.

In addition, I would also recommend checking the water source and conducting a water quality test to see if there are any contaminants present. It is possible that the sand filter may not be effectively removing all impurities from the water.

If the white layer is indeed an oily layer, using a paper filter may help to remove it, but it is important to also address the root cause of the oil contamination in the water. This could be due to a malfunctioning oil tank or other sources of oil in the water supply.

It is also important to regularly clean and maintain the water supply system to prevent any further contamination. I would also suggest consulting with a professional water treatment specialist for further advice and assistance in resolving this issue.

In conclusion, further testing and investigation is needed to determine the exact nature of the white layer and the appropriate solution to the problem. I hope this information is helpful in addressing the issue with the water quality.
 

1. What causes the white layer on water?

The white layer on water is caused by tiny air bubbles that are trapped in the water. These bubbles reflect light, which gives the appearance of a white layer on top of the water.

2. Is the white layer on water harmful?

No, the white layer on water is not harmful. It is simply a natural phenomenon caused by air bubbles and does not pose any health risks.

3. How long does the white layer on water last?

The white layer on water can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the size and amount of air bubbles present in the water.

4. Can the white layer on water be prevented?

The white layer on water is a natural occurrence and cannot be prevented. However, using distilled or filtered water with less air content can reduce the formation of the white layer.

5. Does the white layer on water have any impact on aquatic life?

The white layer on water does not have any significant impact on aquatic life. It is a surface phenomenon and does not affect the water quality or the organisms living in it. However, excessive aeration of water can harm aquatic life by reducing the oxygen levels in the water.

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