Total Suspended Solids (TSS) primarily consist of which type of matter?

Total Suspended Solids (TSS) primarily consist of solid particles that do not settle out of the water under quiescent conditions. These solids can include a variety of materials such as silt, clay, organic matter, and microorganisms. The measurement of TSS is important in wastewater treatment because high concentrations can indicate pollution and can affect the treatment processes by clogging filters and reducing the efficiency of treatment systems.

In contrast, dissolved organic matter is measured separately and refers to organic substances that have passed through a filter, making them not part of TSS. Floating debris typically does not contribute significantly to TSS, as it is either less dense and remains on the surface or is not suspended throughout the flow. Gases in solution, while they can impact water quality, do not have a solid form and therefore do not contribute to the suspended solids measurement. Understanding TSS is crucial for properly assessing water quality and the efficiency of wastewater treatment.