Tennessee Wastewater Operator Practice Exam

What is one of the primary functions of a wastewater treatment plant?

1. Conversion of organic materials into energy

2. Enhancement of water temperature

3. Removal of solids from the wastewater

4. Recycling of water for agricultural use

The correct answer is: Removal of solids from the wastewater

One of the primary functions of a wastewater treatment plant is the removal of solids from the wastewater. This process is crucial because untreated wastewater contains a variety of suspended and dissolved solids, which can cause pollution and harm aquatic life if discharged into the environment. During the treatment process, large debris and solids are removed first through screening processes, followed by sedimentation, where heavier particles settle to the bottom of settling tanks. This significantly reduces the solid content in the wastewater before it undergoes further treatment, such as biological treatment, to remove dissolved organic matter and pathogens. This multi-step approach ensures that the water is treated effectively, making it suitable for discharge or potential reuse. While the conversion of organic materials into energy, enhancement of water temperature, and recycling of water for agricultural use may occur in conjunction with certain wastewater treatment processes, they are not considered primary functions of a wastewater treatment plant. The main goal consistently focuses on producing clean water by efficiently removing contaminants from wastewater.