Study GuideMicrobiology–Aquatic Microbiology1.Sewage and Wastewater TreatmentEvery day, human activities produce large amounts ofsewage and wastewater. Before this watercan be released into rivers, lakes, or oceans—or reused—it must be treated carefully.Wastewater often contains:•Excessnitrogen and phosphorus•Heavy metalsand chemical pollutants•Organic wastethat can harm ecosystems•Pathogenic microorganismsthat cause diseaseIf released untreated, this mixture would overload natural waterways and threaten human health.1.1Why Treatment Is NecessarySewage contains bothchemicalandbiological waste. These wastes must be broken down beforewater is returned to the environment or reused.Treatment works by:•Managing microbial populations•Encouraging helpful microorganisms to digest organic matter•Removing harmful chemicals and disease-causing microbesEven water taken fromground sourcesmust be treated before it is safe to drink.1.2Water Purification (Drinking Water Treatment)Water purification focuses onreducing microorganismsto safe levels and keeping them low.Step 1: SedimentationWater is placed in asedimentation tank, where heavy particles settle to the bottom.Preview Mode
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