Florida Wastewater Practice Test

What is another term commonly used for inorganic solids?

1. Volatile

2. Non-volatile

3. Soluble

4. Liquid

The correct answer is: Non-volatile

Inorganic solids are substances that do not contain carbon-hydrogen bonds and are generally characterized by their stability and resistance to degradation. The term that is often used to describe the behavior of inorganic solids in terms of their chemical properties is "non-volatile." Non-volatile substances are those that do not readily evaporate or vaporize at normal temperatures and pressures. This characteristic is significant in wastewater management, as it indicates that these solids remain stable in the environment and can accumulate in various treatment processes. On the other hand, volatile substances are those that can easily transition into a gas phase, which is not typically the case for inorganic solids. Soluble substances can dissolve in a solvent, while liquids are distinguished by their state of matter. Therefore, "non-volatile" is the most suitable term for describing inorganic solids, highlighting their enduring nature in wastewater systems.