What role does sodium bisulfate play in wastewater treatment?

Sodium bisulfate plays a significant role in wastewater treatment primarily because it reduces heavy metals. In wastewater, heavy metals can be toxic to aquatic life and pose health risks if they enter the water supply. Sodium bisulfate, when added to wastewater, helps to precipitate these heavy metals, allowing them to be removed from the water more effectively. This process is important for meeting regulatory standards and ensuring that treated wastewater is safe for discharge or reuse.

In contrast, the other options pertain to different aspects of wastewater management. Neutralizing odors generally involves using chemicals that mask or eliminate unpleasant smells, while disinfectants are specifically aimed at killing pathogens. Promoting biological growth typically refers to the use of nutrients that support the growth of microorganisms which break down organic matter. Each of these functions is crucial in the wastewater treatment process, but sodium bisulfate uniquely addresses the challenge of heavy metals, making it distinct in this context.