Tennessee Wastewater Operator Practice Exam

What can excessive organic loading to a wastewater treatment system cause?

1. Improved effluent quality

2. Reduction in treatment efficiency

3. Decrease in energy consumption

4. Increase in nutrient recovery

The correct answer is: Reduction in treatment efficiency

Excessive organic loading to a wastewater treatment system can overwhelm the biological treatment processes, leading to a reduction in treatment efficiency. When the concentration of organic material exceeds the system's designed capacity, it can cause several issues such as oxygen depletion in aerobic processes, which can impair the ability of microorganisms to break down waste effectively. As a result, the treatment system may not adequately reduce pollutants, leading to higher concentrations of contaminants in the effluent. Additionally, high organic loads can create an environment conducive to the growth of less desirable bacteria, which can further complicate the treatment process and disrupt the balance of microbial communities essential for effective wastewater treatment. This imbalance might also contribute to the development of odors and the potential for other operational challenges, ultimately resulting in a lower overall quality of treated effluent. Therefore, managing organic loading is vital to maintain the efficiency and effectiveness of wastewater treatment systems.