Which of the following will not affect settling characteristics in a clarifier?

The depth of the launder does not significantly impact the settling characteristics within a clarifier. Settling characteristics are primarily influenced by factors such as the influent flow rate, sludge concentration, and detention time.

The influent flow rate affects the hydraulic loading and can lead to turbulence, which can disrupt sludge settling. Sludge concentration is crucial because higher concentrations can lead to increased viscosity, affecting how well solids can settle. Detention time is also critical, as it allows more time for solids to settle to the bottom.

In contrast, the depth of the launder is designed for efficient removal of clarified water from the surface and does not directly influence the physical properties or behaviors of the sludge as it settles in the clarifying basin. Thus, it is more of a structural design issue rather than a factor that affects the settling characteristics of the solids.