What role do microorganisms play in wastewater treatment systems?

Microorganisms are essential to the process of wastewater treatment, primarily because they decompose organic matter. This biological action is critical in reducing the amount of waste that is present in the water, making it safer for discharge into the environment. As these microorganisms consume organic substances, they break them down into simpler compounds, which can then be further treated or released as less harmful effluent.

In addition to decomposition, some microorganisms can also play a role in disinfection, further ensuring that the treated wastewater meets regulatory standards before being released. This dual function of decomposing organic matter and contributing to disinfection is key for maintaining the efficiency of wastewater treatment systems and protecting public health and the environment.

This understanding of the role of microorganisms helps clarify misconceptions about their necessity in treatment processes. For instance, while it might be conceivable that they could be regarded as contaminants, in reality, they are crucial for ensuring the effectiveness of the treatment system by processing the very waste materials found in wastewater. The misunderstanding of their role in increasing flow is also notable; microorganisms do not influence flow rates but rather impact the quality of water. Their primary contribution заключается in the biological breakdown of harmful materials in wastewater, making choice C the accurate response.