California WasteWater Treatment Operator Grade 2 Certification Practice Test

Algae significantly impact the chlorine demand in pond effluent by increasing it. When algae are present, they can consume chlorine during the disinfection process. This occurs because the organic material produced by algae, as well as any algal cells themselves, require chlorine to oxidize them effectively.

Additionally, as algae die and decompose, they contribute to the organic load in the wastewater, further increasing the chlorine demand. When chlorination is applied, operators must consider this increased demand to ensure effective disinfection occurs. If the chlorine demand is not adequately met, it could lead to insufficient residual chlorine and, consequently, ineffective pathogen inactivation, which is critical for ensuring public health and compliance with regulatory standards in wastewater treatment.

The other options do not accurately reflect the relationship between algae and chlorine demand, as they either suggest a decrease, no impact, or stabilization of chlorine levels, which do not align with observed effects in wastewater treatment practices.