What properties are necessary for drinking water?

The necessary properties for drinking water include sufficiently low levels of dissolved salts and microbes. Clean drinking water must meet specific health standards to ensure it is safe for human consumption. High levels of dissolved salts can lead to health issues, including dehydration and kidney problems, while the presence of microbes can result in waterborne diseases.

Drinking water should be pure enough to minimize health risks, thereby necessitating low concentrations of harmful substances such as pathogens and excessive salts. This ensures that the water is not only safe but also palatable and suitable for everyday use.

The other options do not align with the standards for drinking water safety. High levels of dissolved salts and microbes would make water unsafe, while taste and color are subjective measures that don't guarantee water safety. High mineral content, while potentially beneficial, needs to be balanced because excessive minerals can also cause health complications.