Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) is a standard criterion for
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2017 Prelims]
(a) Measuring oxygen levels in blood
(b) Computing- oxygen levels in forest ecosystems
(c) Pollution assay in aquatic ecosystems
(d) Assessing oxygen levels in high altitude regions
Answer: (c)
Explanation:
- Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) refers to the quantity of oxygen consumed by aerobic bacteria and other microorganisms while they break down organic matter.
- In natural bodies of water like lakes and streams, dissolved oxygen (DO) is essential to sustain aquatic life and maintain the water’s quality and appearance.
- However, environmental pressures and human activities can lead to reduced levels of dissolved oxygen in water bodies.
- Biological oxygen demand (BOD) is a measure of the oxygen needed to eliminate decomposing organic waste from water through the action of aerobic bacteria.
- Industries involved in commercial production and manufacturing must establish a program for disposing of or pretreating wastewater to meet BOD limits.
