American Water College Practice Test 2025 - Free Practice Questions and Comprehensive Study Guide

The function of a grit channel in wastewater treatment is primarily to allow inorganic material to settle. Grit channels are designed to capture heavier solid particles, such as sand, gravel, and other inorganic materials that may be present in the wastewater. As the flow of wastewater moves through the grit channel, these heavier particles settle to the bottom due to gravity, effectively separating them from the lighter organic materials and water.

This separation process is essential because it helps prevent wear and damage to downstream equipment and processes by removing abrasive particles before they can interfere with pumps and treatment systems. It also makes the overall treatment process more efficient by allowing organic matter to be treated separately, focusing biological and physical treatment processes on the materials that require degradation. Consequently, the presence of grit in wastewater can complicate treatment processes if not removed early on, making the function of the grit channel critical for effective wastewater management.