ABSTRACT
The effects of wastewater discharge on the natural purification of a receiving water body are discussed. The BOD test and reaction and the determination of the reaction rate constant as used in the Streeter–Phelps equation are detailed. The oxygen sag curve is illustrated with a diagram, and each of the four decomposition zones are detailed. The use of the Streeter–Phelps equation is further illustrated with a couple of solved example problems. In addition, other methods of waste disposal, including agricultural irrigation, are compared.
