Wastewater New York State Practice Exam

What are the chemicals released by microorganisms during the biological treatment process that break down adsorbed food particles called?

1. Acids

2. Enzymes

3. Radicals

4. Proteins

The correct answer is: Enzymes

The correct answer highlights the role of enzymes in the biological treatment process of wastewater. During this process, microorganisms such as bacteria produce enzymes that act as biological catalysts. These enzymes facilitate the breakdown of complex organic matter, including adsorbed food particles, into simpler substances that can be more easily assimilated by the microorganisms. This enzymatic activity is essential for the effective treatment of wastewater, as it enhances the degradation of organic pollutants, leading to improved efficiency in the overall biological treatment system. In this context, while acids are by-products of microbial metabolism and do play a role in various biochemical processes, they are not the key chemicals specifically responsible for breaking down food particles. Radicals, on the other hand, refer to highly reactive species that typically do not play a primary role in the biological breakdown within wastewater treatment. Proteins, while significant components in the overall biological activity, are not the specific agents that facilitate the direct breakdown of adsorbed particles, which is the primary function of enzymes in this scenario. Thus, recognizing enzymes as the chemicals responsible for the breakdown of food particles underscores their vital function in wastewater treatment processes.