Florida Drinking Water Operator "B" Practice Test

True or False: A decrease in inlet temperatures would require you to increase your mixing speed.

1. True

2. False

3. Depends on water quality

4. Not enough information

The correct answer is: True

A decrease in inlet temperatures impacting the mixing speed can be linked to the behavior of water as it reacts to changes in temperature. When the temperature of the water decreases, its density increases. This results in a change in the rate at which the water mixes, as cooler water can become less mobile and may not mix as efficiently. To ensure proper mixing and maintain the desired water quality, it is often necessary to increase the mixing speed when the inlet temperature drops. This increased mixing speed helps to overcome the effects of cooler, denser water, promoting a more uniform temperature and better distribution of chemicals if they are added. Even though other factors such as water quality can influence the decision to change mixing speed, the fundamental principle related to the effect of temperature on water density justifies the assertion that a decrease in inlet temperatures typically requires an increase in mixing speed.