What defines potable water?

The correct definition of potable water is water that is safe for human consumption. This means that it meets health standards and is free from harmful contaminants that could pose risks to health when ingested. Potable water should be suitable for drinking and cooking without posing any health hazards.

In terms of the context around the other options, water containing minerals can be safe to drink, but the presence of certain minerals does not necessarily mean the water is potable. Similarly, water from natural springs might be safe, but it requires testing to ensure it meets the safety standards for consumption and does not automatically qualify as potable. Water that is unsafe for consumption clearly does not fit the definition of potable water, as it would carry health risks and is unsuitable for drinking purposes. Thus, the emphasis on safety and suitability for human consumption is what definitively characterizes potable water.