What process is primarily affected by high organic load in wastewater treatment systems?

Study for the GWWI WEF Wastewater Treatment Fundamentals Test. Review key concepts with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Prepare to ace your exam!

The correct choice focuses on nutrient removal, which is significantly influenced by high organic loads in wastewater treatment systems. High organic loads generally lead to an increase in the concentration of biodegradable materials present in the wastewater. This can overwhelm the treatment process, particularly in biological treatment systems where microorganisms are responsible for breaking down organic matter.

When the organic load is high, microorganisms utilize available nutrients for growth and metabolism, which can lead to nutrient imbalances. Specifically, the proliferation of these microorganisms can deplete essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, thereby hindering the effectiveness of nutrient removal processes. If the organic matter remains high, it can also cause issues like oxygen depletion in aerobic systems, further complicating the removal of nutrients.

In contrast, while sludge digestion, filtration efficiency, and the overall activity of microorganisms are all relevant processes in wastewater treatment, they are less directly impacted by organic load compared to nutrient removal. High organic loads may affect sludge production and digestion, but the immediate and most pronounced effect is typically observed in the nutrient removal phase. Thus, understanding the interplay between organic loads and nutrient availability is crucial for effective wastewater treatment management.

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