An industrial complex has a BOD discharge of 500 pounds per day. What is the population equivalent of this discharge?

To determine the population equivalent of a biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) discharge, we can use the standard conversion that a population equivalent is often considered to be based on an average BOD contribution from a person per day.

Typically, an average person contributes around 0.17 to 0.20 pounds of BOD per day. For this calculation, using 0.17 pounds per person per day provides a useful estimate. To find the population equivalent for a BOD discharge of 500 pounds per day, you divide the total BOD discharge by the BOD contribution per person.

Calculating this gives:

Population equivalent = Total BOD discharge / BOD per person

Population equivalent = 500 pounds per day / 0.17 pounds per person per day.

This calculation results in approximately 2,941, which is identified as the population equivalent for the BOD discharge in this scenario. This result aligns with the selected answer, confirming its accuracy.

The concept of population equivalent is significant in wastewater management and treatment, as it helps in assessing the impact of industrial wastewater on treatment facilities and the environment.