In a wastewater treatment plant, what is one consequence of inadequate oxygen supply?

In a wastewater treatment plant, an inadequate oxygen supply can lead to the development of foul odors. This occurs because insufficient oxygen hinders aerobic bacteria from breaking down organic matter efficiently. Aerobic processes are crucial for the degradation of wastewater; without adequate oxygen, anaerobic bacteria dominate the treatment process. These anaerobic bacteria produce gases such as hydrogen sulfide and methane, which are associated with foul smells.

The other options do not align with the consequences of inadequate oxygen supply. Enhanced nitrification is dependent on sufficient oxygen for nitifying bacteria to thrive, increased sludge production generally results from organic loading and not from lack of oxygen, and improved water clarity is typically a result of effective treatment processes that rely on adequate oxygen levels for optimal performance. Therefore, the consequence of inadequate oxygen supply is primarily reflected in the development of foul odors.