Glossary of Water and Wastewater Terms

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5 random terms from our glossary

interface

The common boundary layer between 2 substances, such as water and a solid (metal); or between 2 fluids, such as water and a gas (air); or between a liquid (water) and another liquid (oil).

gross vehicle weight (GVW)

The total weight of a single vehicle including its load.

oxidation state/oxidation number

A number and a polarity indication (+ or –) in a chemical formula that tell the charge of an ion as well as the extent to which the ion has been oxidized or reduced in a redox reaction.

focal length

The distance of a focus from the surface of a lens (such as a camera lens) to the focal point.

broken hub

In bell-and-spigot pipe, the bell portion is frequently called the hub. A fracture or break in the bell portion is called a broken hub.