When organic wastes are discharged to receiving waters, ___ is depleted by bacteria

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Multiple Choice

When organic wastes are discharged to receiving waters, ___ is depleted by bacteria

Explanation:
When organic wastes are present, bacteria use dissolved oxygen to metabolize the organic matter. This aerobic respiration consumes oxygen from the water, lowering the dissolved oxygen available for other aquatic life. While carbon dioxide is produced as a byproduct, oxygen is the component that gets depleted. The rate of this consumption is captured by the concept of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD).

When organic wastes are present, bacteria use dissolved oxygen to metabolize the organic matter. This aerobic respiration consumes oxygen from the water, lowering the dissolved oxygen available for other aquatic life. While carbon dioxide is produced as a byproduct, oxygen is the component that gets depleted. The rate of this consumption is captured by the concept of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD).

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