Question

2) Microbes are sometimes used in secondary treatment of wastewater to

A) convert heavy metals into carbon dioxide.
B) remove organic matter.
C) remove large particles.
D) convert heavy metals into carbon dioxide, remove organic matter, and remove large particles.

Answer 1

In secondary wastewater treatment, microbes, specifically aerobic bacteria, are used to remove organic matter through a process of decomposition, but they are not used for removing large particles or converting heavy metals into carbon dioxide.

Step-by-step explanation:

Microbes are utilized in the secondary treatment of wastewater to remove organic matter. This process involves the use of aerobic bacteria to consume organic components found in sewage, like sugar and fats. Through aerobic bacterial decomposition, these microorganisms break down dissolved and suspended biological matter in a controlled environment, which significantly aids in the purification of wastewater.

This biological process, which uses activated sludge systems or fixed film systems, ensures that the sewage is treated by mixing with air to facilitate decomposition, thus making effective use of microbial metabolism. It is important to note that, while microbes play a crucial role in secondary treatment by decomposing organic waste, they are not primarily used for removing large particles or converting heavy metals into carbon dioxide; these are addressed through different processes during sewage treatment.