synergy

The correct answer is **(b) Combining different treatment methods to achieve greater impact than each method alone.**

The correct answer is **(b) Increased reliance on single treatment technologies.** Synergy promotes using multiple methods, not relying on just one.

The correct answer is **(c) Combining biological treatment with membrane filtration to improve water quality.** This example shows how two methods work together to achieve greater results than each method alone.

The correct answer is **(a) Ensuring the compatibility of different treatment technologies.** Making sure methods work well together is crucial for synergy to be successful.

The correct answer is **(c) Because it addresses growing global challenges related to water scarcity and pollution.** Synergy provides innovative and efficient solutions for these critical issues.

Here's a possible solution:

**1. Technologies:**

• **Biological Treatment (Activated Sludge Process):** Effective for breaking down organic matter, reducing biological oxygen demand (BOD), and improving water quality.
• **Coagulation and Flocculation:** Used to remove turbidity and suspended solids by forming larger particles that settle out.

**2. Combination:**

• First, the raw water is passed through a coagulation/flocculation process to remove a significant portion of the suspended solids. This pre-treatment helps to minimize the load on the biological treatment stage.
• The partially treated water then flows into an activated sludge reactor. Here, microorganisms break down the remaining organic matter, further improving water quality.

**3. Benefits:**

• **Improved water quality:** This combination effectively addresses both organic matter and turbidity.
• **Reduced operational costs:** Pre-treatment with coagulation/flocculation reduces the burden on the biological stage, potentially requiring less energy and chemicals.
• **Enhanced sustainability:** Using a natural biological process minimizes chemical reliance and promotes a more sustainable system.

**4. Challenges and Mitigation:**

• **Sludge Management:** The biological process generates sludge that needs proper treatment and disposal. This can be addressed by implementing technologies like sludge dewatering and anaerobic digestion for biogas production.
• **Monitoring and Control:** Effective monitoring and control of both stages are crucial to ensure consistent performance and avoid negative interactions. This can be achieved with automated systems and regular testing.