What is the purpose of aeration in wastewater treatment?

Aeration in wastewater treatment serves the crucial function of increasing oxygen levels within the liquid waste. This process is vital for supporting aerobic bacteria, which play a key role in breaking down organic matter in the wastewater. The presence of oxygen allows these bacteria to thrive, facilitating the biochemical processes necessary for the degradation of pollutants. The more effective aeration is, the more oxygen is available to aid in these processes, leading to improved treatment efficiency and better quality effluent being discharged.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary role of aeration. While changes in pH and temperature can occur during various wastewater treatment processes, these are not the main goals of aeration. The evaporation of moisture from sludge is also not related to aeration directly; rather, it involves different treatment methods to manage sludge. Thus, the primary purpose of aeration is indeed to enhance oxygen levels, supporting the essential functions of aerobic bacteria in the wastewater treatment process.