What is the purpose of tertiary sewage treatment? - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question 1 - 2015
Question 1
What is the purpose of tertiary sewage treatment?
Worked Solution & Example Answer:What is the purpose of tertiary sewage treatment? - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question 1 - 2015
Step 1
Reduce (remove, lower) nitrates identified by name
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Answer
The purpose of tertiary sewage treatment is primarily to reduce or remove nitrates from wastewater. Nitrates, which are compounds that contain the nitrate ion ext{NO}_3^{-}, can be detrimental to aquatic life if they are present in high concentrations in water bodies.
Step 2
Reduce (remove, lower) phosphates identified by name
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In addition to nitrates, tertiary treatment aims to reduce or remove phosphates, which can be indicated by the formula ext{PO}_4^{3-}. This reduction is crucial because excess phosphates can lead to nutrient pollution.
Step 3
To prevent (avoid) algal bloom (eutrophication) downstream
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Another significant purpose of tertiary sewage treatment is to prevent algal blooms that result from nutrient overloading (eutrophication) in downstream water bodies. Algal blooms can deplete oxygen levels in the water, harming aquatic ecosystems and water quality.
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