Texas Wastewater Class B Practice Exam

What do organic solids in wastewater primarily consist of?

1. Synthetic materials

2. Organic materials from plants, animals, or humans

3. Inorganic compounds

4. Metals and rubble

The correct answer is: Organic materials from plants, animals, or humans

Organic solids in wastewater mainly consist of organic materials derived from plants, animals, or humans. These materials can include food waste, fecal matter, and other biodegradable substances that decompose naturally. The presence of these organic materials is a significant factor in the biological treatment processes used in wastewater management, as they serve as a food source for microorganisms. The other options either focus on materials not typically found in significant amounts in wastewater or pertain to categories of materials that do not primarily contribute to organic solids. Synthetic materials are not naturally occurring and, although they may be present in wastewater, do not classify as organic. Inorganic compounds and metals are also not organic and are generally considered separately in wastewater treatment processes.