Wastewater New York State Practice Exam 2026 – The Comprehensive All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

The effect of solids loss over the weirs of a secondary clarifier directly relates to treating wastewater effectively. When solids are carried over the weirs, this means that particulate matter, which ideally should settle at the bottom of the clarifier, ends up in the effluent. This results in a higher concentration of solids in the treated water, which can lead to various issues downstream, particularly in the disinfection process.

An increased amount of organic matter and particulates in the effluent can lead to an elevated chlorine demand because chlorine is needed not only to disinfect pathogens but also to react with other compounds present, such as organic materials and solids. Essentially, the more solids that are present in the wastewater, the more chlorine will be required to effectively disinfect the water before it is released into the environment. Therefore, solids loss can significantly affect the water's treatment process, increasing chlorine demand as a direct result of decreased effectiveness in clarifying the water.

This understanding emphasizes the importance of efficient solids settling within a clarifier to maintain both the quality of effluent and the effectiveness of disinfection processes that follow.