Municipal Wastewater Treatment Practice Exam 2025 - Free Wastewater Treatment Practice Questions and Study Guide

Primary pre-aeration in wastewater treatment primarily aims to freshen the wastewater and facilitate the separation of oil and grease. This step is crucial because it enhances the overall treatment process by promoting the flotation of lighter materials, such as oils and fats, which can then be more easily removed. The introduction of air into the wastewater increases the dissolved oxygen levels, which can help to destabilize emulsions and improve the separation process. This makes it easier to manage these substances before they enter subsequent treatment stages.

Other methods like grinding and biologically degrading organic materials are part of different stages in the wastewater treatment process. Measuring the flow of incoming wastewater, although essential for monitoring and process control, is not the main focus of primary pre-aeration. Thus, the correct understanding of pre-aeration's role highlights its importance in preparing wastewater for effective treatment, particularly in dealing with oils and greases.