An Imhoff cone is used to determine what?

An Imhoff cone is specifically designed to measure the amount of settleable solids in wastewater. This measurement is crucial in wastewater treatment because it provides an indication of the solid material that will settle out during the sedimentation process. When a sample of wastewater is poured into the Imhoff cone, the solids will begin to settle at the bottom over a specific duration, typically 30 minutes. The volume of solids that accumulates at the bottom indicates the concentration of settleable solids in the sample.

The other options are not the correct application of an Imhoff cone. Dissolved oxygen levels, for example, require different testing methods, typically involving a dissolved oxygen meter or titration techniques. Similarly, measuring the concentration of organic matter or pH levels would necessitate other analytical approaches that assess biochemical oxygen demand or use pH meters, respectively. The distinct purpose of the Imhoff cone makes it a key tool in monitoring and managing the sedimentation aspects of wastewater treatment processes.