Ontario Operator-in-Training (OIT) Practice Exam

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Study for the Ontario Operator-in-Training (OIT) Test. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions for preparation, with hints and explanations for each. Get ready for your exam!

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What does a high BOD test result indicate?

  1. Low levels of organic material

  2. High levels of oxygen in the water

  3. High amounts of organic material present

  4. Excellent water clarity

The correct answer is: High amounts of organic material present

A high Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) test result indicates high amounts of organic material present in the water. BOD measures the amount of dissolved oxygen that bacteria will consume while decomposing organic matter at a certain temperature over a specified time period. Therefore, when BOD levels are elevated, it suggests that there is a significant amount of organic pollutants in the water, indicating poor water quality. This situation can lead to a depletion of oxygen in the water, which can be harmful to aquatic life. The presence of high organic material often comes from sources such as wastewater discharges, decaying vegetation, or runoff containing organic materials. These factors critically affect the overall health of aquatic ecosystems.