Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Aerated lagoons are wastewater treatment systems that use oxygen to break down organic matter and remove pollutants. They consist of large shallow basins where microorganisms decompose organic waste aerobically, resulting in cleaner water.
Related terms
Wastewater Treatment Plant: A facility designed to treat and purify wastewater before it is released back into the environment.
Activated Sludge Process: An aerobic biological treatment process used in wastewater treatment plants that involves mixing wastewater with a culture of microorganisms called activated sludge.
Nutrient Removal: The process of removing excess nutrients (such as nitrogen and phosphorus) from wastewater to prevent pollution and protect aquatic ecosystems.