Tennessee Wastewater Operator Practice Exam

Which statement best describes inorganic waste?

1. It decomposes rapidly through microbial action

2. It is material affected largely by biological activity

3. It is waste material slightly affected by the actions of organisms

4. It includes all plant-based materials

The correct answer is: It is waste material slightly affected by the actions of organisms

Inorganic waste is characterized by its minimal interaction with biological processes, which is reflected in the idea that it is "slightly affected by the actions of organisms." This type of waste primarily consists of non-living materials that do not decompose through microbial activity as quickly as organic waste. Unlike organic materials, which are derived from living organisms and can break down rapidly due to microbial action, inorganic waste typically includes substances such as metals, glass, and certain chemicals that may persist in the environment for a much longer time. The focus on being "slightly affected" highlights the limited biological influence on such materials compared to organic matter, underlining the distinction between the two types of waste. The other choices describe attributes more aligned with organic waste characteristics or suggest properties that do not accurately represent inorganic waste. For instance, inorganic waste does not generally decompose rapidly through microbial action, nor is it significantly shaped by biological activity. Additionally, it does not include plant-based materials, which are organic. Thus, the chosen statement accurately captures the essence of inorganic waste in environmental context.