Compare the operation and function of a trickling filter system and activated sludge.

 Both systems are used as a secondary aerobic treatment method to oxidize organic material. A trickling filter system involves wastewater being slowly passed through a thick layer of crushed rocks. The large surface area of the rock allows for sufficient oxygenation. The rocks surface is coated with a biofilm that actively removes soluble organic material in the wastewater and mineralizes it to CO2. Activated sludge wastewater is continually mixed and aerated in large tanks. Extensive flocs of microbial biomass form, which absorb and mineralize the organic material to CO2. After effluent leaves the aeration tank, the flocs are allowed to settle. Some of the floc is returned to the tank to maintain sufficient biomass and a high rate of mineralization. This is unnecessary in a trickling filter system because the biomass is attached to the rock in an extensive biofilm. Both systems use oxygen to mineralize organic matter in wastewater, in contrast to an anaerobic bioreactor.

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