Ontario Operator-in-Training (OIT) Practice Exam

What does wastewater treatment primarily aim to manage?

1. Removal of chemicals

2. Production of microorganisms to decompose waste

3. Establishment of drinking water quality

4. Monitoring environmental impacts

The correct answer is: Production of microorganisms to decompose waste

Wastewater treatment primarily aims to manage the decomposition of organic waste materials, which is effectively facilitated by microorganisms. During the treatment process, a variety of biological processes are employed where these microorganisms break down organic matter present in the wastewater. This is essential for reducing harmful pollutants and ensuring that the water is safe for potential discharge into the environment or for reuse. While the other choices touch upon important aspects of water treatment and environmental management, they do not encapsulate the primary goal of wastewater treatment as effectively. For example, the removal of chemicals is a result of treatment processes, but the main focus is on biological degradation. Similarly, while achieving drinking water quality is an important outcome, it is not the core aim of wastewater treatment itself, which deals specifically with waste management rather than the direct production of drinking water. Monitoring environmental impacts is crucial for regulatory compliance and sustainability, but it does not directly describe the primary objective of managing wastewater itself. Focusing on the establishment of decomposition through microorganisms highlights the biological nature of the treatment processes employed in wastewater management.