Massachusetts Wastewater Practice Exam

True or false: Phenols can be removed using neutralization.

1. True

2. False

3. Only in acidic conditions

4. Only through evaporation

The correct answer is: False

Phenols are organic compounds that are characterized by the presence of a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to a benzene ring. The removal of phenols from wastewater typically involves chemical reactions that specifically target their structure, rather than neutralization. Neutralization is a process that involves the reaction of an acid with a base to produce water and a salt. This method is generally effective for neutralizing pH levels and is more applicable to strong acids and bases. However, phenols do not react in this manner because they are not strong acids or bases—rather, they are weak acids with low solubility in water. To effectively remove phenols from wastewater, advanced treatment methods such as adsorption, advanced oxidation processes, or biological treatments are employed. These methods address the chemical structure of phenols and are better suited for reducing their concentration in wastewater. Therefore, the assertion that phenols can be removed through neutralization is inaccurate. It is important to understand the chemical nature of contaminants and the appropriate treatment methods that align with their properties in wastewater management.