What is the most common sample preservation temperature for water samples?

The most common sample preservation temperature for water samples is 0 degrees Celsius. Cooling water samples to this temperature slows down microbial activity and chemical reactions, preserving the integrity of the sample until analysis can be performed. This is particularly important for obtaining accurate results, as certain parameters might change if samples are not kept at appropriate temperatures, leading to potential misinterpretation of the water quality or contamination levels.

While higher temperatures can be suitable for specific analyses or are employed in different contexts, maintaining the sample at 0 degrees Celsius is a standard practice in water quality testing to minimize biological and chemical changes that can occur at higher temperatures. This ensures that the data obtained from the analysis reflects the true conditions of the water at the time of sampling.