Florida Drinking Water Operator "B" Practice Test

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Study for the Florida Drinking Water Operator "B" Test. Use multiple choice questions, flashcards, and explanations to prepare. Ace your certification!

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Why are acids commonly fed into the feed water of an RO unit?

To enhance recovery rates
To protect membranes from damage by hydrolysis
To increase permeate flow
To decrease salt concentration

The correct answer is: To protect membranes from damage by hydrolysis

Acids are commonly fed into the feed water of a reverse osmosis (RO) unit primarily to protect the membranes from damage by hydrolysis. In the context of RO systems, hydrolysis refers to the breakdown of the membrane material due to exposure to certain contaminants, especially under varying pH conditions. When the feed water has a high pH or contains significant levels of certain substances, this can lead to membrane degradation over time. By adding acids, the pH of the feed water can be adjusted to a more neutral range, thus preventing the alkaline conditions that may cause the hydrolysis of the membrane material. This practice is crucial for maintaining the integrity and longevity of the membranes, ultimately ensuring that the RO system operates efficiently and effectively. Proper pH control through acid addition prevents premature membrane failure, which would otherwise result in increased operational costs and system downtime.