Florida Wastewater Practice Test

During the biological treatment phase in wastewater processing, the primary focus is on the removal of organic material. This phase typically involves the use of microorganisms, such as bacteria, that feed on organic pollutants found in the wastewater. These microorganisms break down complex organic compounds into simpler substances, which can then be further processed or removed from the system. This microbial action is critical for reducing biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and total organic carbon (TOC), allowing the treated water to meet environmental standards for discharge or reuse. While other substances like suspended solids, heavy metals, and chemicals may be present in wastewater, they are not the main targets of biological treatment. Suspended solids might be addressed more effectively during preliminary or primary treatment stages, where physical processes like sedimentation are used. Heavy metals often require specialized processes such as chemical precipitation or adsorption, while chemicals may undergo additional treatment steps depending on their nature. Overall, the biological treatment phase is designed to specifically target and reduce organic content to enhance water quality sustainably.