Water Treatment Plant Operator Quiz: Trivia!
Did you know that a water treatment plant operator is a person who manages a system of devices to transfer or treat water or wastewater? Most of these people are employed by the local government. Under general supervision, the water treatment plant operator will oversee, maintain, and repair a wide array of complex machinery and equipment. This quiz will explain this specific job and what it entails. Happy learning.
- 1.
Neither plant life nor animal life depend upon water for survival.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Both plant life and animal life depend upon water for survival. Water is essential for various biological processes such as photosynthesis in plants and hydration in animals. Without water, plants would not be able to produce food and animals would not be able to maintain their bodily functions. Therefore, the statement that neither plant life nor animal life depend upon water for survival is false.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Desalination technology is advancing and can make water in the oceans suitable for other beneficial uses.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement suggests that desalination technology is improving and can now convert ocean water into usable water for various purposes. This implies that desalination can help address water scarcity issues by providing a new source of freshwater. The statement is supported by advancements in desalination technology, which have made the process more efficient and cost-effective. As a result, desalination has become a viable solution for regions facing water shortages, allowing them to utilize ocean water for beneficial purposes. Therefore, the answer is true.Rate this question:
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- 3.
When using a river or stream as a source for a drinking water supply, one should always be concerned with upstream conditions.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
When using a river or stream as a source for drinking water, it is essential to be concerned with upstream conditions because the quality and safety of the water can be affected by activities and pollutants upstream. Upstream conditions can include industrial activities, agricultural runoff, sewage discharge, and other sources of contamination that can potentially impact the water quality downstream. Therefore, being aware of and monitoring upstream conditions is crucial to ensure the safety and purity of the drinking water supply.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Running water purifies itself to drinking water quality within a stated distance.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Running water does not purify itself to drinking water quality within a stated distance. While running water may be cleaner than stagnant water due to the natural processes of filtration and dilution, it still needs to be treated before it is safe to drink. Water treatment processes, such as filtration, disinfection, and chlorination, are necessary to remove harmful bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants from the water and ensure it meets drinking water quality standards. Therefore, the statement is false.Rate this question:
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- 5.
The water table may slope from areas of recharge to lower areas of discharge.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
This statement is true because the water table, which is the underground level at which the soil and rock are saturated with water, tends to slope from areas of recharge to lower areas of discharge. Recharge areas are where water enters the ground, such as through rainfall or infiltration, while discharge areas are where water exits the ground, such as through springs or wells. This slope in the water table helps to facilitate the movement of water from areas of higher elevation to lower elevation.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The sanitary survey should include the location of all potential and existing health hazards and the determination of their present and future importance.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that a sanitary survey is conducted to assess the location and significance of potential and existing health hazards. This includes identifying and evaluating the current and future importance of these hazards. Therefore, it is true that the sanitary survey should include the location of all potential and existing health hazards and the determination of their present and future importance.Rate this question:
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- 7.
To be suitable for human use, water should be free from all impurities that are offensive to the senses of sight, taste, and smell.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Water that is suitable for human use should be free from impurities that can be detected by the senses of sight, taste, and smell. This means that the water should not have any visible particles, should not have any unpleasant taste, and should not have any foul odor. This is important to ensure that the water is safe and enjoyable to consume. Therefore, the statement "To be suitable for human use, water should be free from all impurities that are offensive to the senses of sight, taste, and smell" is true.Rate this question:
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- 8.
The specific disease-producing organisms present in water are easily isolated and identified.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement suggests that the specific disease-producing organisms present in water can be easily isolated and identified. However, this is not true. Identifying disease-causing organisms in water requires complex laboratory techniques and testing procedures. It is not an easy task to isolate and identify these organisms accurately. Therefore, the statement is false.Rate this question:
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- 9.
The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) gave EPA the responsibility for enforcing drinking water regulations.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) did not give the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the responsibility for enforcing drinking water regulations. Instead, the SDWA authorized the EPA to set national standards for drinking water quality, but the primary responsibility for enforcing these standards lies with the states. The EPA provides guidance, oversight, and funding to assist the states in carrying out their enforcement duties. Therefore, the statement that the SDWA gave the EPA the responsibility for enforcing drinking water regulations is false.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Operators must realize that water can degrade in the distribution or delivery system.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Water can degrade in the distribution or delivery system due to various factors such as aging infrastructure, cross-contamination, and the presence of contaminants. Over time, pipes can corrode or develop leaks, allowing external elements to enter the water supply. Additionally, inadequate maintenance and improper disinfection practices can contribute to the degradation of water quality. Therefore, operators must be aware of these risks and take appropriate measures to prevent or address any degradation that may occur in the distribution or delivery system.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Which problem has been caused by mineral residues from irrigation?
- A.
Drinking water taste bland
- B.
Fish in mountain lakes are killed
- C.
Once fertile soil is damaged
- D.
Toxic storm water runs off from highways
Correct Answer
C. Once fertile soil is damagedExplanation
The mineral residues from irrigation have caused the problem of damaging the once fertile soil. This means that the soil, which was previously rich in nutrients and suitable for growing crops, has been degraded and is no longer able to support healthy plant growth. This could lead to reduced agricultural productivity and potentially impact food production in the affected area.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which problem is caused by acid rain?
- A.
Drinking water tastes bland
- B.
Fish in mountain lakes are killed
- C.
Once fertile soil is damaged
- D.
Toxic storm water runs off from highways
Correct Answer
B. Fish in mountain lakes are killedExplanation
Acid rain is caused by emissions of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide, which react with the atmosphere to form sulfuric acid and nitric acid. When acid rain falls into mountain lakes, it increases the acidity of the water. This increased acidity can be harmful to fish and other aquatic organisms, leading to their death. Therefore, the problem caused by acid rain is the killing of fish in mountain lakes.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Why do water shortages directly influence energy consumption?
- A.
As groundwater levels fall, more energy is required to pump water from deeper levels in the basin
- B.
As people use less water, energy consumption increases
- C.
As water availability decreases, people use more energy to create more water
- D.
As water shortages increase, there is more water available to generate hydroelectrical power
Correct Answer
A. As groundwater levels fall, more energy is required to pump water from deeper levels in the basinExplanation
Water shortages directly influence energy consumption because as groundwater levels fall, it becomes necessary to pump water from deeper levels in the basin. This requires more energy, as the pumps need to work harder to bring the water to the surface. Therefore, the decrease in water availability leads to an increase in energy consumption for pumping purposes.Rate this question:
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- 14.
If there is any question regarding the right to the use of the water, what should a property owner do?
- A.
Consult with neighbors and reach an appropriate agreement
- B.
Consult with the appropriate authority and clearly establish rights to its use
- C.
Pay sufficient funds to the regulatory agency to acquire exclusive water rights
- D.
Question all persons claiming rights and allocate or budget water equitably
Correct Answer
B. Consult with the appropriate authority and clearly establish rights to its useExplanation
The correct answer is to consult with the appropriate authority and clearly establish rights to its use. This is the most logical and legal course of action for a property owner when there is a question regarding the right to the use of water. By consulting with the appropriate authority, such as a water management agency or local government, the property owner can navigate the legal process and establish their rights to the water. This ensures that the property owner is following the proper procedures and can avoid any potential conflicts or disputes with neighbors or regulatory agencies.Rate this question:
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- 15.
What is an impermeable surface?
- A.
A surface that does not allow, or allows only with great difficulty, the movement or passage of water
- B.
A surface that easily allows the movement or passage of water
- C.
A surface used by operators to control direct runoff
- D.
A surface used to control the runoff of storm water
Correct Answer
A. A surface that does not allow, or allows only with great difficulty, the movement or passage of waterExplanation
An impermeable surface refers to a surface that does not easily allow the movement or passage of water. It either completely blocks the movement of water or allows it to pass through with significant difficulty. This type of surface prevents water from infiltrating into the ground, leading to increased runoff and potential flooding.Rate this question:
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- 16.
What is lake or reservoir stratification?
- A.
The formation of a condition in a lake or reservoir where evaporation is controlled
- B.
The formation of ideal fishing conditions in a lake or reservoir
- C.
The formation of mixing or turnover conditions in a lake or reservoir
- D.
The formation of separate layers (temperature, plant, or animal life)in a lake or reservoir.
Correct Answer
D. The formation of separate layers (temperature, plant, or animal life)in a lake or reservoir.Explanation
Lake or reservoir stratification refers to the formation of separate layers in a lake or reservoir. These layers can be distinguished by factors such as temperature, plant life, or animal life. This stratification occurs due to differences in density, temperature, and oxygen levels within the water body. The layers do not mix or turnover easily, resulting in distinct zones within the lake or reservoir. This stratification is important for the health and functioning of the ecosystem, as it creates different habitats and niches for various organisms.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Why must recreation facilities be properly constructed and located away from water supply intake areas?
- A.
To improve intake maintenance activities
- B.
To increase revenue generated by recreation users
- C.
To protect the recreation users from intake operation activities
- D.
To protect the water supply from contamination
Correct Answer
D. To protect the water supply from contaminationExplanation
Recreation facilities must be properly constructed and located away from water supply intake areas to protect the water supply from contamination. This is important because recreational activities can introduce pollutants, such as chemicals, waste, or debris, into the water. By keeping the recreation facilities away from the intake areas, the risk of contamination is minimized, ensuring that the water supply remains safe and clean for consumption.Rate this question:
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- 18.
With a new water supply, when should the sanitary survey be made?
- A.
After the entire system is on line and as a final sanitary check
- B.
During the collection of initial engineering data covering the development of a given source and its capacity to meet existing and future needs
- C.
During the start-up procedures for a new plant
- D.
During the survey of neighboring waste discharge violations
Correct Answer
B. During the collection of initial engineering data covering the development of a given source and its capacity to meet existing and future needsExplanation
The sanitary survey should be made during the collection of initial engineering data covering the development of a given source and its capacity to meet existing and future needs. This is because conducting the survey at this stage allows for a thorough assessment of the sanitary conditions and potential risks associated with the new water supply. It ensures that any necessary measures can be taken to address sanitation issues before the system is fully operational, minimizing the chances of contamination and ensuring the safety of the water supply.Rate this question:
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- 19.
What is a cross connection?
- A.
A branch of medicine that studies epidemics
- B.
A connection between a drinking (potable) water system and an unapproved water supply
- C.
A detailed description of all underground features discovered during the drilling of a well
- D.
A detailed evaluation and/or inspection of a source of water supply and all conveyances, storage, treatment, and distribution facilities to ensure protection of the water supply from all pollution sources
Correct Answer
B. A connection between a drinking (potable) water system and an unapproved water supplyExplanation
A cross connection refers to a connection between a drinking (potable) water system and an unapproved water supply. This connection poses a risk as it can allow contaminants from the unapproved water supply to enter the drinking water system, potentially leading to health hazards. It is important to identify and eliminate cross connections to ensure the safety and purity of the drinking water supply.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Why is the coliform group of bacteria used to estimate the relative degree of bacterial contamination of water?
- A.
Coliforms are always present in fecal wastes and vastly outnumber specific disease-producing organisms
- B.
Coliforms are specific pathogens
- C.
Coliforms are unique to the wastes of humans
- D.
Coliforms cause very serious diseases
Correct Answer
A. Coliforms are always present in fecal wastes and vastly outnumber specific disease-producing organismsExplanation
Coliforms are used to estimate the relative degree of bacterial contamination of water because they are always present in fecal wastes and are much more abundant than specific disease-producing organisms. This means that if coliforms are detected in water, it indicates the presence of fecal contamination, which may also include other harmful bacteria. Therefore, coliforms serve as an indicator of potential waterborne pathogens and help in assessing the overall bacterial contamination level in water sources.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Water rights may stem from or be acquired by which items?
- A.
A performance of certain acts required by law
- B.
Ownership of the land bordering the source of water
- C.
Ownership of the land overlying the source of water
- D.
Payment of a significant sum of money
- E.
Proximity to the ocean
Correct Answer(s)
A. A performance of certain acts required by law
B. Ownership of the land bordering the source of water
C. Ownership of the land overlying the source of waterExplanation
Water rights can be obtained through a performance of certain acts required by law, such as obtaining a permit or license for water usage. Ownership of the land bordering the source of water can also grant water rights, as the owner may have the right to access and use the water on their property. Similarly, ownership of the land overlying the source of water can provide water rights, as the owner may have the right to extract water from beneath their land. Payment of a significant sum of money and proximity to the ocean are not typically factors that grant water rights.Rate this question:
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- 22.
What can happen to precipitation (rain or snow)?
- A.
Can be returned to the atmosphere by evaporation
- B.
Can enter the ground through infiltration
- C.
Can flow over the ground surface
- D.
Can immediately be lost by evapotranspiration
- E.
Can run off directly as surface water
Correct Answer(s)
A. Can be returned to the atmosphere by evaporation
B. Can enter the ground through infiltration
C. Can flow over the ground surface
E. Can run off directly as surface waterExplanation
Precipitation, such as rain or snow, can undergo several processes. It can be returned to the atmosphere by evaporation, where the water is converted from a liquid to a gas and enters the air. It can also enter the ground through infiltration, where it seeps into the soil and becomes groundwater. Precipitation can flow over the ground surface, forming streams and rivers. Additionally, it can run off directly as surface water, flowing over the land without being absorbed. These processes contribute to the movement and distribution of water in the hydrological cycle.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Which discharges could be sources of upstream pollution for a water treatment plant?
- A.
Agricultural drainage
- B.
Clear well drainage
- C.
Distribution storage releases
- D.
Industrial waste
- E.
Municipal waste water
Correct Answer(s)
A. Agricultural drainage
D. Industrial waste
E. Municipal waste waterExplanation
Agricultural drainage, industrial waste, and municipal waste water are all potential sources of upstream pollution for a water treatment plant. Agricultural drainage can contain pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals used in farming. Industrial waste can include pollutants and toxins from factories and manufacturing processes. Municipal waste water can contain various contaminants from households and commercial establishments. All of these discharges have the potential to introduce pollutants into the water supply and can pose a risk to the water treatment plant's ability to provide clean and safe drinking water.Rate this question:
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- 24.
The purpose of investigating or considering certain essential factors in a sanitary survey is to achieve which results?
- A.
To complete all portions of the survey checklist
- B.
To determine factors that affect water quality
- C.
To evaluate the adequacy of the budget
- D.
To identify potential hazards
- E.
To select treatment requirements
Correct Answer(s)
B. To determine factors that affect water quality
D. To identify potential hazards
E. To select treatment requirementsExplanation
The purpose of investigating or considering certain essential factors in a sanitary survey is to determine factors that affect water quality, identify potential hazards, and select treatment requirements. By examining these factors, one can assess the overall quality of the water source, identify any potential risks or hazards that may be present, and determine the necessary treatment measures to ensure the water is safe for consumption. This helps in maintaining and improving the overall water quality and safety standards.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Once precipitation reaches the earth's surface, many opportunities are presented for the introduction of which forms of contamination?
- A.
Energy
- B.
Gases
- C.
Microorganisms
- D.
Mineral substances
- E.
Organic substances
Correct Answer(s)
C. Microorganisms
D. Mineral substances
E. Organic substancesExplanation
When precipitation reaches the earth's surface, it can introduce various forms of contamination. Microorganisms can be introduced through rainwater, snow, or hail, potentially causing diseases and infections. Mineral substances can be carried by precipitation, such as heavy metals or other harmful chemicals, which can contaminate soil and water sources. Organic substances, such as pesticides or fertilizers, can also be carried by precipitation, leading to pollution of the environment. Therefore, microorganisms, mineral substances, and organic substances are all opportunities for contamination when precipitation reaches the earth's surface.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Which items describe the physical characteristics of water?
- A.
Color
- B.
Odor
- C.
Taste
- D.
Temperature
- E.
Turbidity
Correct Answer(s)
A. Color
B. Odor
C. Taste
D. Temperature
E. TurbidityExplanation
The physical characteristics of water include its color, odor, taste, temperature, and turbidity. Color refers to the visual appearance of water, odor refers to its smell, taste refers to its flavor, temperature refers to its degree of hotness or coldness, and turbidity refers to the presence of suspended particles in the water that make it appear cloudy or opaque. These characteristics are all measurable and observable properties of water that can be used to describe and identify it.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Chemical analysis of domestic water supply is broken down in which areas?
- A.
Biological factors
- B.
General mineral constituents
- C.
Inorganic chemicals
- D.
Organic chemicals
- E.
Physical characteristics
Correct Answer(s)
B. General mineral constituents
C. Inorganic chemicals
D. Organic chemicalsExplanation
The chemical analysis of domestic water supply is broken down into general mineral constituents, inorganic chemicals, and organic chemicals. This breakdown allows for a comprehensive understanding of the different types of chemicals present in the water. General mineral constituents refer to the various minerals that can be found in the water, such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. Inorganic chemicals encompass substances like chlorine, fluoride, and heavy metals. Organic chemicals include compounds like pesticides, herbicides, and industrial pollutants. By analyzing these different areas, a complete picture of the water's chemical composition can be obtained.Rate this question:
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- 28.
The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) gave the US EPA the authority to perform which tasks?
- A.
Determine qualifications for stakeholder representatives
- B.
Establish uniform guidelines specifying the acceptable treatment technologies for cleansing drinking water of unsafe level of pollutants
- C.
Require public water systems to monitor and report their levels of identified contaminants
- D.
Review and approve annual budgets for water treatment plants
- E.
Set national standards regulating the levels of contaminants in drinking water
Correct Answer(s)
B. Establish uniform guidelines specifying the acceptable treatment technologies for cleansing drinking water of unsafe level of pollutants
C. Require public water systems to monitor and report their levels of identified contaminants
E. Set national standards regulating the levels of contaminants in drinking waterExplanation
The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) grants the US EPA the authority to establish uniform guidelines specifying the acceptable treatment technologies for cleansing drinking water of unsafe levels of pollutants. This means that the EPA can set standards and guidelines for water treatment processes to ensure that drinking water is safe for consumption. Additionally, the SDWA requires public water systems to monitor and report their levels of identified contaminants, allowing the EPA to track and regulate the quality of drinking water. Lastly, the SDWA empowers the EPA to set national standards regulating the levels of contaminants in drinking water, ensuring that these levels are safe for public health.Rate this question:
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- 29.
In the operation of water treatment plants, basic objectives include controlling which items?
- A.
Production of a safe drinking water
- B.
Production of an aesthetically pleasing drinking water
- C.
Production of drinking water at a reasonable cost with respect to capital costs
- D.
Production of drinking water at a reasonable cost with respect to operation and maintenance costs
- E.
Production of sufficient revenue from water-use fees to cover all costs
Correct Answer(s)
A. Production of a safe drinking water
B. Production of an aesthetically pleasing drinking water
C. Production of drinking water at a reasonable cost with respect to capital costs
D. Production of drinking water at a reasonable cost with respect to operation and maintenance costsExplanation
The basic objectives in the operation of water treatment plants include producing safe drinking water that is free from contaminants and harmful substances. Additionally, the objective is to produce aesthetically pleasing drinking water that is visually appealing and does not have any unpleasant taste or odor. The production of drinking water at a reasonable cost with respect to both capital costs and operation and maintenance costs is also an important objective. Finally, the objective is to generate sufficient revenue from water-use fees to cover all the costs associated with water treatment plant operations.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Consumers show a preference for water supplies that have which characteristics?
- A.
Clear (free of turbidity) and colorless
- B.
Does not leave scale deposits of spot glassware
- C.
Free of objectionable tastes and odors
- D.
Noncorrosive to plumbing fixtures and piping
- E.
Nonstaining (plumbing fixtures and washing clothes)
Correct Answer(s)
A. Clear (free of turbidity) and colorless
B. Does not leave scale deposits of spot glassware
C. Free of objectionable tastes and odors
D. Noncorrosive to plumbing fixtures and piping
E. Nonstaining (plumbing fixtures and washing clothes)Explanation
Consumers prefer water supplies that are clear and colorless because it indicates that the water is free of any suspended particles or impurities. They also prefer water that does not leave scale deposits on glassware as it ensures the water is not hard and will not cause any buildup on dishes. Additionally, consumers want water that is free of objectionable tastes and odors, as these can affect the overall quality and enjoyment of the water. Noncorrosive water is preferred because it prevents damage to plumbing fixtures and piping, while nonstaining water is desired to avoid any discoloration or damage to plumbing fixtures and clothes.Rate this question:
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Sep 14, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Dec 27, 2011Quiz Created by
PaulMJr