What does COD measure in wastewater treatment?

Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) measures the amount of oxygen that is required to chemically oxidize organic compounds and some inorganic compounds in water. In the context of wastewater treatment, COD is a crucial parameter as it provides an indication of the organic pollution level present in the water. A high COD value signifies a greater concentration of pollutants, which means that the wastewater has a higher potential to deplete oxygen in the receiving water bodies when discharged, thereby adversely affecting aquatic life.

COD is utilized in the design and operation of wastewater treatment processes because it helps operators assess the efficiency of treatment systems and the need for additional treatment steps. By measuring COD, treatment facilities can monitor the pollution load and make informed decisions on treatment strategies, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.

The other options, while they may contain terms related to oxygen or demand, do not accurately represent the standard terminology used in wastewater treatment. Only Chemical Oxygen Demand correctly identifies the specific measure of oxygen demand attributable to both biodegradable and non-biodegradable organic materials, thus making it the correct answer.