In biological treatment of wastewater, what do bacteria use as food?

Bacteria in biological treatment of wastewater primarily use organic matter as their food source. In this process, bacteria break down complex organic compounds found in wastewater, converting them into simpler substances. This decomposition not only helps reduce the overall organic load of the wastewater but also reflects the natural metabolic processes of the bacteria.

Organic matter includes substances like sugars, proteins, and fats that are prevalent in domestic wastewater. The bacteria utilize these organic materials for growth and reproduction, which is crucial for effective biological treatment. By metabolizing the organic matter, bacteria help to clarify the wastewater, reduce the concentration of harmful substances, and produce byproducts that can be further treated or aerobically decomposed.

While nutrients from chemicals and dirt may play some role in the overall treatment process or water composition, they are not the primary food source for bacteria in the biological treatment process. Excess water, meanwhile, is simply a component of the wastewater and does not serve as food for bacteria.