Glossary of Water and Wastewater Terms
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y Z5 random terms from our glossary
enzymes (EN-zimes)
Organic substances (produced by living organisms) that cause or speed up chemical reactions. Organic catalysts or biochemical catalysts.
atom
The smallest unit of a chemical element; composed of protons, neutrons, and electrons.
auger (AW-grr)
A sharp tool used to go through and break up or remove various materials that become lodged in collection system pipes.
impeller
A rotating set of vanes in a pump or compressor designed to pump or move water or air.
reaeration (RE-air-A-shun)
The introduction of air through forced air diffusers into the lower layers of the reservoir. As the air bubbles form and rise through the water, oxygen from the air dissolves into the water and replenishes the dissolved oxygen (DO). The rising bubbles also cause the lower waters to rise to the surface where oxygen from the atmosphere is transferred to the water. Also called surface reaeration.
