Quiz

1. What does a BOD test measure?

 A BOD test measures the strength of the wastewater based on the amount of
oxygen needed to stabilize the organic material in the wastewater.

2. Why must samples containing caustic alkalinity or acidity be adjusted before preparing BOD
dilutions?

 Caustic alkalinity and acidity can prevent the growth of bacteria during the test
which prevents the use of oxygen.

3. Why must samples containing residual chlorine be dechlorinated before preparation of BOD
dilutions?

 The presence of chlorine in a sample will inhibit the growth of bacteria during the
BOD test.

4. What is the accepted temperature range and time of incubation for the BOD test?

 20 +/-1°C and 5 days

5. Why must samples which have been dechlorinated or adjusted for pH variations be seeded?

 Samples must be seeded to add healthy organisms to a sample which has been
stressed by toxic conditions (chlorine, high or low pH, etc.)