Florida Wastewater Practice Test

Which term is most closely related to vector attraction reduction in an anaerobic digester?

1. SOUR

2. FOG

3. COD

4. BOD

The correct answer is: SOUR

The term that is most closely related to vector attraction reduction in an anaerobic digester is sour, or more specifically, the concept of "sour" in wastewater treatment involves the degree of acidity or the presence of volatile acids, which can influence the conditions within the anaerobic digester. In anaerobic digestion, the reduction of vector attraction is critical for minimizing the potential for odors and attracting pests. Sour conditions typically indicate that the volatile fatty acids are produced through the breakdown of organic matter, which can impact the overall system dynamics. A manageable sour status helps to create an environment where pathogens can be effectively reduced while enhancing the stability of the digestion process. In contrast, the other terms refer to different aspects of wastewater treatment. FOG (fats, oils, and grease) pertains to the composition of the wastewater but does not directly address vector reduction. COD (chemical oxygen demand) is a measure of the organic pollutants in water but does not specifically relate to vector attraction in the context of anaerobic digestion. BOD (biochemical oxygen demand) measures the amount of biodegradable organic matter in water but, like COD, doesn't encapsulate the concept of vector attraction reduction in anaerobic digesters as precisely as the sour status.