What term describes the total amount of pollutant in kilograms or pounds?

The term "mass loading" refers to the total amount of a pollutant present in a specific context, typically measured in units like kilograms or pounds. It describes the total mass of pollutants that are being introduced into a water body or wastewater system over a defined period of time, usually expressed as a function of flow rate. This concept is vital in wastewater treatment as it allows for the assessment of the pollution burden being handled by a treatment facility, guiding the design and operation of treatment processes to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

Pollutant concentration, on the other hand, indicates the amount of pollutant within a specific volume of water, rather than the total mass present. Discharge rate involves the flow of wastewater being treated, while contaminant volume does not accurately convey the total mass of pollutants and is less commonly used in environmental contexts. Thus, mass loading is the most appropriate term for describing the overall mass of a pollutant.