During wastewater treatment, the secondary treatment requires continual aeration to: A) suppress microbial growth B) select for anaerobic heterotrophs C) stimulate abiotic degradation D) increase microaerophilic filamentous bacteria E) maximize breakdown of molecules to CO₂ and nitrates

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During secondary treatment of wastewater, aeration is required to maximize the breakdown of molecules to carbon dioxide and nitrates. This process is known as biological oxidation or nitrification, and it requires oxygen for the growth and metabolism of aerobic bacteria that oxidize organic matter into carbon dioxide and convert ammonia into nitrate. Therefore, the correct choice is E - maximize breakdown of molecules to CO2 and nitrates.

During Wastewater Treatment, the Secondary Treatment Requires Continual Aeration To