California Wastewater Treatment Operator Practice Exam

How does temperature affect biological treatment processes?

1. It has no effect on microbial activity

2. Higher temperatures generally decrease activity

3. Higher temperatures generally increase microbial activity

4. Extreme temperatures can enhance enzyme functions

The correct answer is: Higher temperatures generally increase microbial activity

The correct choice highlights that higher temperatures generally increase microbial activity. In biological treatment processes, microbes play a crucial role in breaking down organic matter. These organisms are more active at higher temperatures because an increase in temperature often enhances their metabolic rates. This increased metabolic activity leads to more efficient degradation of waste, allowing the system to process organic material more quickly. Temperature impacts enzymatic reactions that are vital for microbial metabolism. Warmer temperatures provide the necessary thermal energy for these reactions to proceed at a faster rate, thus promoting the multiplication of microorganisms and increasing their overall effectiveness in treating wastewater. However, there are limits to this effect; excessively high temperatures can negatively affect microbial populations and enzyme activity, leading to process failures. Therefore, while moderate increases in temperature can indeed boost biological treatment processes, it remains essential to monitor temperature levels to ensure they stay within a range that is beneficial for microbial health and activity.