Dive into the 2026 NY Wastewater Exam – Flush Away the Competition with Confidence!

Detritus in wastewater refers to the small fragments of organic materials that settle out during the treatment process, primarily consisting of decomposed plant and animal matter. It can often include silt, decayed matter, and other organic particles that accumulate in wastewater treatment systems.

The best description of detritus aligns with the definition of grit, which refers to heavier, gritty materials like sand and silt that settle out due to their density. While detritus may contain organic material, grit specifically refers to those non-organic solids that are more mineral in nature.

Understanding this distinction is important in wastewater management, as the presence of grit and detritus requires different handling and processing approaches during treatment. Proper removal of these materials is essential to prevent equipment damage and ensure effective treatment. Thus, identifying detritus as grit emphasizes the significance of these constituents in the wastewater stream and their implications for treatment.