Physical composition in
wastewater such as suspended solids can lead to the development
of sludge deposits and anaerobic conditions when untreated
wastewater is discharged in the aquatic environment. On the other
hand, constituents such as biodegradable organics can lead to
depletion of natural oxygen resources and to the development of
septic conditions. Nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus,
when discharged to the aquatic environment can lead to the
growth of undesirable aquatic life and cause groundwater pollution
when discharged in excess. Many compounds found in wastewater
have characteristics of carcinogenic, mutagenic, tetratogenic
or have high acute of toxicity