Florida Wastewater Practice Test

What is one of the primary goals of wastewater treatment?

1. To increase nutrient levels in receiving waters

2. To reduce the volume of water produced

3. To remove contaminants before discharge

4. To apply chemical fertilizers

The correct answer is: To remove contaminants before discharge

One of the primary goals of wastewater treatment is to remove contaminants before discharge. This process is essential for protecting public health and the environment. Wastewater typically contains a variety of harmful substances, including pathogens, organic materials, nutrients, and chemicals. Effective treatment processes are designed to reduce these contaminants to acceptable levels, ensuring that when the treated water is released back into the environment or reused, it does not pose a risk to human health, aquatic life, or water quality. The removal of contaminants is typically conducted through a series of physical, biological, and chemical treatment methods that focus on breaking down or capturing these harmful substances. By achieving this goal, wastewater treatment facilities help to prevent pollution and maintain the integrity of water bodies, making this objective a cornerstone of wastewater management practices.