What defines potable water?

Potable water is defined as water that is deemed safe for human consumption and meets or exceeds certain health standards. This classification is crucial since it directly pertains to public health and safety. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established stringent drinking water standards that specify the allowable limits of various contaminants, ensuring that water is safe for drinking, cooking, and other personal uses.

In this context, the option affirming that potable water meets or exceeds EPA's drinking water standards accurately captures the essence of what makes water potable. Ensuring compliance with these standards is essential for protecting community health and providing access to safe drinking water.

Other options do not accurately define potable water. For example, water suitable for industrial use may lack the rigorous quality controls required for human consumption. Recycled water from wastewater, while potentially safe for specific applications, is not universally considered potable unless treated and tested to meet drinking water standards. Similarly, water sourced from lakes and rivers can vary significantly in quality, and while it can be treated to become potable, it is not inherently safe for drinking without appropriate testing and treatment. Therefore, the emphasis on adhering to the EPA's standards is what distinctly classifies water as potable.