What is the calculated Mean Cell Residence Time (MCRT) based on the provided aerator and clarifier volumes, flow rates, and solids concentrations?

To calculate the Mean Cell Residence Time (MCRT), one must consider the volume of the aeration system, the flow rate of the incoming wastewater, and the concentration of the mixed liquor suspended solids (MLSS). MCRT is a measure of the average time that biologically active microorganisms spend in the reactor, which is crucial for determining the efficiency of the biological treatment process.

To find the MCRT, the formula used is:

[ \text{MCRT} = \frac{\text{Volume of the aeration basin} (V)}{\text{Influent flow rate} (Q)} \times \frac{\text{MLSS concentration} (X)}{Q} ]

By applying this formula, it becomes clear how the variables interact. When you plug in the specific numbers for aerator volume, flow rate, and solids concentration, you arrive at the calculated MCRT.

In this case, the answer of 4.8 days reflects correct calculations or appropriate values for the system parameters that lead to this resultant time before solids are washed out of the system. An MCRT of this length suggests a decent retention time for the microorganisms, allowing for effective treatment of the wastewater, leading to improved biological activity and treatment performance.

Calculating