California Wastewater Treatment Operator Practice Exam

Which of the following parameters should be monitored several times a week in a pond?

1. pH and turbidity

2. flow rate and conductivity

3. dissolved oxygen and temperature

4. total suspended solids and color

The correct answer is: dissolved oxygen and temperature

Monitoring dissolved oxygen and temperature several times a week in a pond is crucial because both parameters play significant roles in the health of aquatic ecosystems and the effectiveness of wastewater treatment. Dissolved oxygen is essential for the survival of aerobic microorganisms that break down organic matter in the wastewater. Low levels of dissolved oxygen can lead to inefficient treatment processes and hinder the natural biological functions in the pond. Regular monitoring ensures that these levels remain adequate to support microbial activity and prevent anaerobic conditions, which can result in the production of foul odors and harmful byproducts. Temperature impacts both the solubility of oxygen and the metabolic rates of the organisms in the pond. As temperature increases, dissolved oxygen levels typically decrease, making it important to keep a close watch on temperature fluctuations. Monitoring temperature also helps in understanding the biological processes and ensuring they operate efficiently. While other parameters like pH and turbidity, flow rate, conductivity, total suspended solids, and color are important for overall water quality, they do not require the same frequency of monitoring to maintain the critical biological processes occurring in a pond.