When collecting water samples for testing, which type of bottle is generally preferred?

When collecting water samples for testing, the preference for using both glass and polyethylene containers is rooted in their compatibility with various types of water analyses. Glass bottles are inert and do not leach substances, making them suitable for a wide range of chemical analyses. They are particularly favored for volatile and reactive compounds, as they do not interact with the sample.

On the other hand, polyethylene bottles are highly practical for sampling due to their light weight and lower risk of breakage compared to glass. They are commonly used for microbiological testing and other applications where sterility is essential, provided the polyethylene is free of contaminants and complies with the specific requirements of the analysis.

Together, these materials provide flexibility for different testing requirements while ensuring that the integrity of the water sample is preserved. This combination makes both glass and polyethylene acceptable choices, as they cater to different analytical needs without compromising the quality of the sample.