What is the purpose of aeration in activated sludge processes?

The purpose of aeration in activated sludge processes is to supply oxygen for microorganism activity. In wastewater treatment, microorganisms, particularly bacteria, play a crucial role in breaking down organic matter. These microorganisms require oxygen to perform respiration, which enables them to metabolize the organic pollutants in the wastewater effectively.

During aeration, air is introduced into the mixed liquor of wastewater and activated sludge, creating a suitable environment for aerobic bacteria to thrive. This process helps to enhance the biological treatment of the wastewater, resulting in the reduction of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and total suspended solids in the effluent. A well-aerated system leads to healthier microbial populations, enabling efficient breakdown of waste materials and improving overall treatment performance.

The other options do not accurately reflect the main goal of aeration in this context, focusing instead on aspects that are not primarily related to the fundamental function of aeration in activated sludge systems.