Wastewater Operator Exam Math Problems Solved

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Problem 1: Flow Conversion

Question:

Convert 500 gallons per minute (GPM) to MGD.

Formula:

Solution:

500 × 1440 = 720,000

720,000 ÷ 1,000,000 = 0.72 MGD

✅ Answer: 0.72 MGD

Problem 2: Pounds Formula

Question:

A plant treats 2 MGD with a BOD concentration of 180 mg/L.
How many pounds of BOD enter the plant daily?

Formula:

Solution:

2 × 180 × 8.34

= 3,002.4 lbs/day

✅ Answer: 3,002 lbs/day

Problem 3: Detention Time

Question:

A tank volume is 500,000 gallons. Flow is 0.5 MGD.

Formula:

Solution:

500,000 ÷ 500,000

= 1 day

✅ Answer: 1 day detention time

Problem 4: Chlorine Dosage

Question:

How many pounds of chlorine are needed for a 3 MGD plant dosing 2 mg/L?

Solution:

3 × 2 × 8.34

= 50.04 lbs/day

✅ Answer: 50 lbs/day

Problem 5: Surface Overflow Rate

Question:

A clarifier treats 1 MGD and has a surface area of 800 sq ft.

Formula:

Solution:

1,000,000 ÷ 800

= 1,250 gpd/sq ft

✅ Answer: 1,250 gpd/ft²

About the author

WWTP supervisor with over 15 years of experience helping wastewater operators advance their careers.