Wastewater New York State Practice Exam

Mineral-type compounds that are generally nonvolatile and not biodegradable are referred to as what?

1. Organic

2. Inorganic

3. Synthetic

4. Biodegradable

The correct answer is: Inorganic

Mineral-type compounds that are characterized as nonvolatile and not biodegradable are classified as inorganic substances. Inorganic compounds typically include minerals and metals, which do not contain carbon-hydrogen (C-H) bonds, distinguishing them from organic compounds. The nonvolatility aspect indicates that these compounds do not easily evaporate into the air, while being non-biodegradable means they do not break down through biological processes. This distinction is important in wastewater treatment, as inorganic materials can affect the processes involved and require specific handling to manage their presence in waste systems effectively. Understanding this classification can help in identifying the appropriate treatment methods and regulations associated with inorganic compounds in wastewater management.