FREE Wastewater Operator Treatment Processes Questions and Answers
In an activated sludge system, what is the role of aeration?
In an activated sludge system, aeration supplies oxygen to aerobic microorganisms, enabling them to metabolize organic matter in the wastewater.
Which of the following processes is commonly used in primary wastewater treatment?
Primary treatment focuses on removing large solids and inorganic materials, such as sand and grit, through sedimentation and screening processes before biological treatment begins.
Which type of microorganism is most responsible for breaking down organic matter in secondary treatment?
In secondary treatment, bacteria are the primary microorganisms responsible for degrading organic matter. They consume the organic waste, converting it into carbon dioxide, water, and biomass.
What is the primary goal of secondary wastewater treatment?
Secondary treatment typically involves biological processes like activated sludge or trickling filters to reduce Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) by breaking down organic matter using microorganisms.
What is the purpose of tertiary wastewater treatment?
Tertiary treatment removes residual contaminants like nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus), suspended solids, and pathogens to produce high-quality effluent suitable for reuse or safe environmental discharge.