In industrial wastewater treatment plants, which of the following parameters is monitored continuously?

The continuous monitoring of pH in industrial wastewater treatment plants is crucial for several reasons. pH is a key indicator of the acidity or alkalinity of wastewater, which can significantly affect chemical reactions, biological processes, and the overall effectiveness of treatment methods.

In many industrial processes, the pH can fluctuate due to various operations, such as chemical reactions or the introduction of different substances into the wastewater stream. Continuous monitoring ensures that the pH remains within acceptable limits, which is essential for optimizing treatment efficiency and protecting the infrastructure of the treatment plant.

Moreover, pH levels can impact the solubility and toxicity of pollutants, the efficiency of disinfection processes, and the growth of microorganisms used in biological treatment. By closely observing this parameter, operators can make immediate adjustments to maintain optimal conditions, preventing potential violations of discharge permits and protecting the receiving water bodies.

In contrast, other parameters like Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Suspended Solids (TSS), and Coliform may typically be measured periodically rather than continuously, due to the complexity of the tests involved or the nature of the information they provide.