Which of the following processes is utilized for nutrient removal in advanced sewage treatment?

Nitrification and denitrification are essential processes utilized for effectively removing nitrogen compounds from wastewater during advanced sewage treatment. Nitrification is the aerobic process in which ammonia is oxidized to nitrites and then to nitrates by specialized bacteria. Following this, denitrification occurs anaerobically, where nitrates are converted into nitrogen gas, which is released into the atmosphere. This two-step process is crucial for reducing nitrogen loading in water bodies, which can lead to problems such as eutrophication.

In contrast, while coagulation and flocculation are important for removing suspended solids and improving sedimentation, they do not specifically target nutrient removal. Reverse osmosis is a filtration technique that can remove a wide range of contaminants but is generally not used solely for nutrient removal. Tertiary filtration provides additional purification beyond primary and secondary treatment stages, often focusing on solids removal and disinfection rather than nutrient control. Thus, nitrification and denitrification are the most relevant processes for nutrient removal in advanced sewage treatment, addressing the specific needs of nitrogen management in wastewater.