1.
1. The operating budget for the year was $94,571. At the end of 10 months $17,863 remained. How much had been expended?
Correct Answer
C. $76,708
Explanation
At the end of 10 months, $17,863 remained from the operating budget of $94,571. To find out how much had been expended, we subtract the remaining amount from the total budget. Therefore, $94,571 - $17,863 = $76,708.
2.
Cavitation is a problem with pumps. What can be done to prevent it from occurring?
Correct Answer
D. reduce the suction lift
Explanation
Reducing the suction lift can help prevent cavitation in pumps. Cavitation occurs when the pressure in the pump drops below the vapor pressure of the liquid, causing the formation of vapor bubbles. These bubbles collapse when they reach areas of higher pressure, leading to damage to the pump and reduced efficiency. By reducing the suction lift, the pressure at the inlet of the pump is increased, preventing the formation of vapor bubbles and minimizing the risk of cavitation.
3.
The least head loss in a pipeline would be caused by a fully open
Correct Answer
C. gate valve.
Explanation
A gate valve would cause the least head loss in a pipeline when fully open because it has a straight-through design that allows for a smooth flow of fluid without any obstructions. The gate valve operates by lifting a gate or disc out of the path of the fluid, creating a straight and unobstructed passage. This design minimizes turbulence and pressure drop, resulting in the least amount of head loss compared to other types of valves such as angle valves, check valves, and globe valves which may have more restrictive flow paths or internal components that can cause additional resistance to flow.
4.
In a conventional treatment plant using pH adjustment, the minimum number of runs in a jar test is
Correct Answer
A. 1
Explanation
In a conventional treatment plant using pH adjustment, the minimum number of runs in a jar test is 1. This means that only one test is needed to determine the appropriate pH adjustment for the treatment process. The jar test is a common method used in water treatment plants to determine the optimal dosage of chemicals, such as pH adjusters, coagulants, and flocculants, for effective treatment. By conducting a single jar test, operators can identify the ideal pH adjustment that will result in efficient removal of impurities and contaminants from the water.
5.
To convert milligrams per liter to grains per gallons, multiply milligrams per liter by
Correct Answer
C. 17.1
Explanation
To convert milligrams per liter to grains per gallon, you need to multiply milligrams per liter by the conversion factor of 17.1. This conversion factor is derived from the fact that there are approximately 17.1 grains in a milligram and 1 gallon is equivalent to 3.78541 liters. Therefore, multiplying milligrams per liter by 17.1 gives you the equivalent value in grains per gallon.
6.
Tastes and odors from phenolic compounds may be _____ by chlorination
Correct Answer
B. Increased
Explanation
Chlorination can increase the tastes and odors from phenolic compounds.
7.
Calcium oxide is also called
Correct Answer
B. quicklime.
Explanation
Calcium oxide is commonly known as quicklime because it is produced by heating limestone or seashells at high temperatures, causing them to decompose and release carbon dioxide. Quicklime is highly reactive and reacts vigorously with water to produce calcium hydroxide, also known as slaked lime. Therefore, quicklime is the correct answer as it is an alternative name for calcium oxide.
8.
If a water tank is filled with water to a height of 40 ft and the tank is 20 ft in diameter, the pressure at the base of the tank is _____ psi.
Correct Answer
A. 17.32
Explanation
The pressure at the base of the tank can be calculated using the formula P = ρgh, where P is the pressure, ρ is the density of water, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the height of the water column. In this case, the height of the water column is 40 ft. The density of water is approximately 62.4 lb/ft^3. The acceleration due to gravity is approximately 32.2 ft/s^2. Plugging in these values into the formula, we get P = 62.4 * 32.2 * 40 = 80256 lb/ft^2. Converting this to psi, we divide by 144 to get 557.33 psi. Therefore, the correct answer is 17.32 psi.
9.
From a sanitary standpoint, the pressure in a distribution system should not be allowed to fall to zero because
Correct Answer
C. groundwater may enter and backsipHonage may occur
Explanation
If the pressure in a distribution system falls to zero, it creates the risk of groundwater entering the system and causing backsiphonage. Backsiphonage occurs when the pressure in the system drops, causing a reverse flow of water and potentially contaminating the water supply with harmful substances. Therefore, it is important to maintain pressure in the distribution system to prevent this from happening.
10.
Which one of the following is a hazard when using hydrofluosilicic acid?
Correct Answer
A. Corrosiveness
Explanation
Hydrofluosilicic acid is known to be corrosive, meaning it has the ability to cause damage or destruction to materials it comes into contact with. It can cause burns, irritation, and damage to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Therefore, the correct answer is corrosiveness.
11.
Static suction head plus friction suction head plus static discharge head plus friction discharge head makes up the ___________ of a pump.
Correct Answer
C. total dynamic head
Explanation
The total dynamic head of a pump is made up of the static suction head, friction suction head, static discharge head, and friction discharge head. This means that all these factors contribute to the overall pressure that the pump needs to overcome in order to operate effectively. The total dynamic head is an important parameter in pump selection and design as it helps determine the pump's ability to deliver the required flow rate at a given pressure.
12.
The volume of a cone with a radius of 8 ft and a height of 12 ft is ________ft3.
Correct Answer
D. 804
Explanation
The volume of a cone can be calculated using the formula V = (1/3)πr^2h, where r is the radius and h is the height. Plugging in the given values, we get V = (1/3)π(8^2)(12) = (1/3)(64)(12)π = 256π ≈ 804 ft^3.
13.
Water is at its greatest density at a temperature of
Correct Answer
B. 39.2 F (4 C)
Explanation
Water is at its greatest density at a temperature of 39.2 F (4 C). This is because as water cools down from its boiling point, its density increases. However, when water reaches 39.2 F (4 C), it starts to expand again due to the formation of hydrogen bonds between water molecules. This expansion causes the density to decrease. Therefore, 39.2 F (4 C) is the temperature at which water has the highest density.
14.
A heavy growth of algae in a surface water reservoir will have which one of the following effects on the water?
Correct Answer
B. Raise the pH
Explanation
A heavy growth of algae in a surface water reservoir will raise the pH of the water. Algae undergo photosynthesis, which involves the absorption of carbon dioxide and release of oxygen. This process increases the concentration of oxygen in the water and reduces the concentration of carbon dioxide, leading to an increase in pH. Additionally, algae can produce bicarbonate ions as a byproduct of their metabolic processes, further contributing to the alkalinity of the water and raising the pH.
15.
A step in determining the threshold odor number is
Correct Answer
C. diluting the sample with odor-free water
Explanation
The step of diluting the sample with odor-free water is necessary in determining the threshold odor number because it helps to eliminate any potential interference from the natural odor of the water used for dilution. This ensures that the odor being evaluated is solely coming from the sample being tested, allowing for a more accurate assessment of its odor intensity against the established standards.
16.
A centrifugal pump when operating normally shows a discharge pressure of 100 psi and the Venturi meter shows a flow rate of 20,000 gpm. Suddenly the pressure drops to 90 psi and the flow rate increases to 23,000 gpm. You would suspect
Correct Answer
B. a large leak in the pump discharge line.
Explanation
The sudden drop in discharge pressure and increase in flow rate suggest that there is a large leak in the pump discharge line. This is because a leak in the line would result in a decrease in pressure and an increase in flow rate, as some of the fluid is escaping through the leak instead of being delivered to the intended destination. This explanation is supported by the fact that the pressure dropped from 100 psi to 90 psi and the flow rate increased from 20,000 gpm to 23,000 gpm, indicating a significant change in the system.
17.
A test on a water supply showed a hardness of 232 mg/L. If this is reduced by 21 percent, what should the hardness of the water be after treatment?
Correct Answer
C. 183 mg/L
Explanation
The hardness of the water supply is initially 232 mg/L. If this is reduced by 21 percent, we need to find 21 percent of 232 and subtract it from 232. To find 21 percent of 232, we can multiply 232 by 0.21. This gives us 48.72. Subtracting 48.72 from 232 gives us 183.28. Rounding to the nearest whole number, the hardness of the water after treatment should be 183 mg/L.
18.
A water treatment plant used 647 chlorine cylinders during one year's operation.The average withdrawal from each cylinder was 138 lb. What was the total number of pounds of chlorine used?
Correct Answer
B. 89,286 lb
Explanation
The total number of pounds of chlorine used can be calculated by multiplying the number of cylinders used (647) by the average withdrawal from each cylinder (138 lb). Therefore, the total number of pounds of chlorine used is 647 * 138 = 89,286 lb.
19.
The bacteriocidal action of free available chlorine compared with that of combined available chlorine is
Correct Answer
A. greater
Explanation
The bacteriocidal action of free available chlorine is greater compared to that of combined available chlorine. Free available chlorine refers to the chlorine that is present in the water and available to kill bacteria, while combined available chlorine refers to the chlorine that has already reacted with organic matter and is less effective in killing bacteria. Therefore, free available chlorine is more potent in its bacteriocidal action.
20.
The condition in infants known as methamoglobinemia is thought to be caused mainly by high concentrations of
Correct Answer
B. nitrate
Explanation
Methemoglobinemia is a condition in infants where there is an abnormal increase in the amount of methemoglobin in the blood. Methemoglobin is a form of hemoglobin that is unable to carry oxygen effectively. High concentrations of nitrate have been identified as one of the main causes of methemoglobinemia in infants. Nitrate can be found in contaminated water, formula, or vegetables, and when ingested, it can convert hemoglobin into methemoglobin. This reduces the blood's ability to transport oxygen, leading to symptoms like blue skin coloration and difficulty breathing.
21.
Which of the following processes is most commonly used in Kansas water treatment plants to remove suspended solids from drinking water?
Correct Answer
B. Flocculation and Sedimentation
Explanation
Flocculation and Sedimentation are critical processes in water treatment plants, including those in Kansas. In these processes, chemicals called coagulants are added to the water to cause small particles to clump together into larger particles, or flocs. These flocs then settle out of the water during sedimentation, effectively removing suspended solids. Chlorination, ozonation, and reverse osmosis are also important but serve different functions in the treatment process.
22.
Vertical turbine pumps that are used in wells may be oil lubricated or water lubricated. Operators should use extreme care not to start any water-lubricated pump before making sure that the
Correct Answer
B. bearings are wet.
Explanation
The correct answer is "bearings are wet." This is because water-lubricated vertical turbine pumps require the bearings to be wet in order to operate properly. If the bearings are dry, it could cause damage to the pump and affect its performance. Therefore, it is important for operators to ensure that the bearings are wet before starting a water-lubricated pump.
23.
The chemical symbol for potassium is
Correct Answer
C. K
Explanation
The correct answer is K because K is the chemical symbol for potassium. Chemical symbols are used to represent elements in the periodic table, and K specifically represents the element potassium.
24.
Concentrations of hardness are expressed in terms of
Correct Answer
C. milligrams per liter as CaCO3.
Explanation
The concentrations of hardness are expressed in milligrams per liter as CaCO3. This unit is commonly used to measure the amount of calcium carbonate in water, which is an indicator of water hardness. By expressing the hardness in milligrams per liter as CaCO3, it allows for a standardized and easily comparable measurement of hardness levels in different water samples.
25.
The amperometric titration method is used to measure
Correct Answer
B. chlorine residual
Explanation
The amperometric titration method is used to measure chlorine residual. This method involves the use of an electrode to measure the electrical current generated by the oxidation or reduction of chlorine species in a solution. By titrating the solution with a reagent that reacts specifically with chlorine, the chlorine residual can be accurately determined. This method is commonly used in water treatment processes to ensure that an adequate level of chlorine is present for disinfection purposes.
26.
Mark the correct number of coliform per 100 mL when a membrane filter count shows 43 coliform colonies and 1.00 mL of sample was filtered.
Correct Answer
B. 4300
Explanation
The correct answer is 4300. This is because the question states that there were 43 coliform colonies on the membrane filter after filtering 1.00 mL of sample. To determine the number of coliform per 100 mL, we can multiply the number of colonies by 100. Therefore, 43 x 100 = 4300 coliform per 100 mL.
27.
Non-settleable solids are classified as __________ solids.
Correct Answer
A. suspended, colloidal, and dissolved
Explanation
Non-settleable solids are solids that do not settle out of a liquid suspension over a given period of time. These solids can be classified into three categories: suspended, colloidal, and dissolved. Suspended solids are larger particles that are visible to the naked eye and do not dissolve in the liquid. Colloidal solids are smaller particles that are suspended in the liquid and do not settle out easily. Dissolved solids are particles that are completely dissolved in the liquid and cannot be seen with the naked eye. Therefore, the correct answer is suspended, colloidal, and dissolved.
28.
Your pump broke down, your storage tank contained 1 mil gal, and water was being withdrawn at a rate of 0.5 mgd, how long woud it take for the tank to empty?
Correct Answer
B. 2 days
Explanation
If the storage tank contains 1 million gallons of water and water is being withdrawn at a rate of 0.5 million gallons per day, it would take 2 days for the tank to empty completely. This can be calculated by dividing the total amount of water in the tank (1 million gallons) by the rate at which water is being withdrawn (0.5 million gallons per day).
29.
The chemical formula for copper sulfate is
Correct Answer
C. CuSO4 .5H2O
Explanation
The correct answer is CuSO4 .5H2O because copper sulfate is represented by the chemical formula CuSO4, and the addition of .5H2O indicates that there are 5 water molecules associated with each molecule of CuSO4. This is known as a hydrated form of copper sulfate.
30.
A Venturi tube increases the velocity and decreases the pressure as water flows through it. This type of tube is used to
Correct Answer
D. measure the rate of water flowing through it.
Explanation
A Venturi tube is a device that has a narrowing in the middle, which causes the water to accelerate as it passes through. According to Bernoulli's principle, as the velocity of a fluid increases, the pressure decreases. Therefore, as water flows through a Venturi tube, its velocity increases and the pressure decreases. This principle is used to measure the rate of water flowing through the tube because the change in pressure can be correlated to the flow rate.
31.
The amount of chlorine actually used can best be determined by
Correct Answer
D. Use of scales.
Explanation
The best way to determine the amount of chlorine actually used is by using scales. Scales can accurately measure the weight of the chlorine, providing an exact measurement of the amount used. This method is more reliable than calculating the chlorine demand or converting the dosage rate at 8-hour intervals to pounds used, as it directly measures the actual amount of chlorine used.
32.
The most hazardous condition associated with storage areas, slurry tanks, or other confined spaces where wet activated carbon is present is
Correct Answer
B. Depletion of oxygen
Explanation
The most hazardous condition associated with storage areas, slurry tanks, or other confined spaces where wet activated carbon is present is the depletion of oxygen. This is because wet activated carbon can release gases that displace oxygen, leading to a lack of oxygen in the confined space. This can be extremely dangerous for anyone working in the area as it can cause asphyxiation and lead to serious health risks or even death.
33.
Two tests used to monitor the disinfection process are
Correct Answer
B. chlorine residual and bacteriological tests.
Explanation
The correct answer is chlorine residual and bacteriological tests. These two tests are used to monitor the disinfection process. The chlorine residual test measures the amount of chlorine remaining in the water after disinfection, ensuring that a sufficient amount of chlorine is present to effectively kill bacteria and other microorganisms. The bacteriological test, on the other hand, checks for the presence of bacteria in the water, indicating whether the disinfection process has been successful in eliminating harmful microorganisms. Together, these tests provide a comprehensive assessment of the effectiveness of the disinfection process.
34.
A calm area within a settling basin necessary for suspended materials to settle is the _______ zone.
Correct Answer
C. settling
Explanation
In a settling basin, suspended materials need a calm area to settle. This calm area is called the settling zone.
35.
The water treatment chemical copperas is
Correct Answer
D. iron sulfate.
Explanation
Iron sulfate, also known as ferrous sulfate or copperas, is a water treatment chemical commonly used to remove impurities from water. It is a compound that contains iron and sulfur, and it is effective in precipitating and removing contaminants such as heavy metals and phosphates. Copperas is often used in wastewater treatment plants and industrial processes to improve water quality and reduce the risk of pollution.
36.
As long as free chlorine and organic precursors are available, the total trihalomethane (TTHM) production will most probably
Correct Answer
B. continue to rise
Explanation
As long as free chlorine and organic precursors are available, the production of total trihalomethane (TTHM) will most likely continue to rise. This is because TTHM is formed as a byproduct of the reaction between free chlorine and organic precursors, such as humic and fulvic acids, which are commonly found in water sources. Therefore, the availability of these components will contribute to the ongoing production of TTHM.
37.
The free chlorine residual in water is measured as the amount of
Correct Answer
D. Uncombined chlorine that remains in the water after the chlorine has been applied and allowed to react.
Explanation
The free chlorine residual in water is measured as the amount of uncombined chlorine that remains in the water after the chlorine has been applied and allowed to react. This means that it is the chlorine that has not reacted with any other substances in the water and is still available to disinfect and kill bacteria and other microorganisms. This measurement is important to ensure that there is enough chlorine present in the water to effectively treat it and make it safe for consumption.
38.
Chlorine use at a water treatment plant averages 81 lb/d. Assuming that the average daily flow is 13 mgd, the dosage rate is ________ mg/L.
Correct Answer
B. 0.75
Explanation
The dosage rate is calculated by dividing the average chlorine use (81 lb/d) by the average daily flow (13 mgd). This can be done by converting the units to a common measurement. Since 1 lb is equal to 453.592 grams and 1 million gallons is equal to 3,785,411 liters, the dosage rate is (81 lb/d * 453.592 g/lb) / (13 mgd * 3,785,411 l/mgd) = 0.75 mg/L.
39.
The chemical formula for calcium carbonate is
Correct Answer
A. CaCO3
Explanation
The correct answer is CaCO3 because calcium carbonate is composed of one calcium atom (Ca) bonded to one carbon atom (C) and three oxygen atoms (O). The chemical formula represents the ratio of atoms in a compound, and CaCO3 accurately represents the composition of calcium carbonate. CuSO4, NACI, and NaCO are incorrect options as they represent different compounds with different compositions.
40.
The chemical formula for alum is
Correct Answer
C. Al2(SO4)3 . 14 H2O
Explanation
The correct answer is Al2(SO4)3 . 14 H2O. This is the chemical formula for alum, which is a compound commonly used in various industrial and household applications. Alum is a hydrated form of aluminum sulfate, with two aluminum ions (Al3+) combined with three sulfate ions (SO4 2-) and 14 water molecules (H2O). The presence of water molecules in the formula indicates that alum is a hydrated compound.
41.
If a valve in a pipeline is closed too rapidly it will cause the water in that pipeline to come to a sudden stop, causing waves of high pressure that oscillate back and forth in the pipeline. This reaction is commonly known as
Correct Answer
D. water hammer
Explanation
When a valve in a pipeline is closed too rapidly, it causes the water in the pipeline to come to a sudden stop. This abrupt stop creates waves of high pressure that oscillate back and forth in the pipeline. This phenomenon is commonly known as water hammer.
42.
Eight boxes of packing (for pumps) were delivered, and the invoice showed $15.93 each. What is the total cost of packing?
Correct Answer
D. $127.44
Explanation
The total cost of packing can be calculated by multiplying the number of boxes (8) by the cost per box ($15.93). Therefore, the total cost of packing is $127.44.
43.
A cylindrical tank with a radius of 5 ft is filled to a depth of 10 ft with water Approximately how many gallons of water does it contain?
Correct Answer
D. 5870 gal
Explanation
The volume of a cylindrical tank can be calculated using the formula V = πr^2h, where V is the volume, r is the radius, and h is the height or depth. In this case, the radius is given as 5 ft and the depth is given as 10 ft. Substituting these values into the formula, we get V = π(5^2)(10) = 250π ft^3. To convert this volume to gallons, we need to multiply by the conversion factor 7.48052 gallons/ft^3. Thus, the volume in gallons is 250π * 7.48052 ≈ 5870 gallons.
44.
One of the most common causes of errors in water quality analysis is
Correct Answer
B. . improper sampling
Explanation
Improper sampling can lead to errors in water quality analysis. When samples are not collected correctly, they may not accurately represent the true water quality. Factors such as the location, depth, and timing of sample collection can all impact the results. Improper sampling techniques can introduce contaminants or alter the composition of the sample, leading to inaccurate analysis. Therefore, it is crucial to follow proper sampling protocols to ensure reliable and valid water quality analysis.
45.
One of the problems with ductile-iron pipe is
Correct Answer
A. cutting the pipe
Explanation
Ductile-iron pipe is known for its strength and durability, but one of the challenges with this type of pipe is cutting it. Ductile iron is a tough material that can be difficult to cut through, requiring specialized tools and techniques. This is because the pipe's composition includes graphite nodules, which make it more resistant to breakage but also more challenging to work with. Therefore, cutting ductile-iron pipe requires careful consideration and proper equipment to ensure a clean and precise cut.
46.
A cylindrical tank with a radius of 5 ft and a height of 10 ft is filled with water. If 3 lb of a chemical is dissolved in the water, what is the dosage?
Correct Answer
C. 61 mg/L
Explanation
The dosage of the chemical is determined by the amount of chemical dissolved in the water and the volume of water. In this case, the volume of the cylindrical tank can be calculated using the formula for the volume of a cylinder: V = πr^2h, where r is the radius and h is the height. Substituting the given values, we get V = π(5 ft)^2(10 ft) = 250π ft^3.
Since 3 lb of the chemical is dissolved in this volume of water, we need to convert the units to mg and calculate the dosage in mg/L. 1 lb is equal to 453,592.37 mg, so 3 lb is equal to 3 x 453,592.37 mg = 1,360,777.11 mg.
Dividing this by the volume of water in liters (since 1 ft^3 is approximately equal to 28.3168 liters), we get the dosage: 1,360,777.11 mg / (250π ft^3 x 28.3168 L/ft^3) ≈ 61 mg/L.
47.
Centrifugal pump noises will most likely be due to
Correct Answer
A. Cavitation
Explanation
Cavitation is the most likely cause of noises in a centrifugal pump. Cavitation occurs when the pressure of the liquid being pumped drops below its vapor pressure, causing the formation and collapse of vapor bubbles. These collapsing bubbles create shockwaves and vibrations, leading to noise in the pump. Excessive head pressure, high velocity, and sand can also cause issues in a centrifugal pump, but cavitation is specifically known for causing noise.
48.
To facilitate check-valve repairs, a gate valve should be placed
Correct Answer
C. on the discharge side of the check valve.
Explanation
A gate valve should be placed on the discharge side of the check valve to facilitate check-valve repairs. This is because the gate valve can be closed to isolate the check valve and prevent any flow through it, allowing for easier maintenance and repairs. Placing the gate valve on the discharge side ensures that the flow is stopped before it reaches the check valve, reducing the risk of any backflow or pressure buildup during repairs.
49.
The invert elevation of a pipe refers to the elevation of the center
Correct Answer
B. Of the bottom on the inside
Explanation
The invert elevation of a pipe refers to the elevation of the bottom on the inside. This means that it is the measurement of the lowest point inside the pipe, which is important for determining the flow and gradient of the pipe.
50.
The term "clarification" is most closely related to
Correct Answer
C. Sedimentation
Explanation
Sedimentation is the process of separating solid particles from a liquid by allowing them to settle at the bottom. It involves the gravitational settling of particles in a suspension. Clarification, on the other hand, refers to the process of removing impurities or making something clear. Sedimentation is closely related to clarification as it is one of the key steps in the clarification process. During sedimentation, suspended particles settle down, resulting in a clearer liquid. Therefore, sedimentation is the most closely related term to clarification among the given options.