Florida Wastewater Practice Test

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Prepare for the Florida Wastewater Exam. Study with multiple choice questions and detailed explanations. Ensure your readiness with our comprehensive test materials!

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What adjustment is helpful if solids are rising in the secondary clarifier and accompanied by large septic gas bubbles?

Decrease RAS rate
Increase RAS rate
Reduce inflow rate
Increase chemical dosing

The correct answer is: Increase RAS rate

When solids are rising in the secondary clarifier and large septic gas bubbles are present, this indicates that there may be a problem with the settling of solids. Increasing the Return Activated Sludge (RAS) rate is beneficial in this situation. By doing so, you enhance the concentration of active microorganisms in the clarifier. This promotes better flocculation, allowing the solids to settle more efficiently, which can reduce the rise of solids and help mitigate the formation of gas bubbles. Increasing the RAS rate essentially means that more settled sludge is returned to the aeration basin, which contributes to the biomass available for treating incoming wastewater. With a greater biomass, the chances of effective biological treatment improve, ultimately leading to better settling characteristics in the clarifier. This adjustment plays a critical role in maintaining the proper balance of solids and in improving overall plant performance.