Florida Wastewater Practice Test

Amperometric titration is primarily used to measure what?

1. Dissolved oxygen

2. Chlorine residual

3. pH level

4. Total solids

The correct answer is: Chlorine residual

Amperometric titration is a specific analytical technique that is particularly effective for measuring the concentration of certain substances in a solution, with chlorine residual being one of its primary applications. This method involves the use of an electrochemical sensor that responds to the presence of chlorine by generating a current proportional to the concentration of chlorine in the sample. As titration proceeds, the current response changes, providing real-time data that allows for accurate determination of chlorine residuals. Chlorine residual measurements are extremely important in wastewater treatment processes, ensuring that disinfection chemicals are present in adequate amounts to effectively kill pathogens without causing harm to the environment or human health. Being able to measure chlorine residuals through amperometric titration ties directly into maintaining operational efficiencies and regulatory compliance in water treatment facilities. Other methods used for measuring dissolved oxygen, pH levels, and total solids involve different principles and instruments, such as optical sensors for oxygen, pH meters for acidity or basicity, and gravimetric methods for solids, which do not utilize the amperometric approach. This specificity of amperometric titration towards chlorine highlights its versatility and importance in wastewater treatment practices.