What is a characteristic property of grease that contributes to blockages in wastewater systems?

The characteristic property of grease that contributes to blockages in wastewater systems is its ability to harden. Grease is composed of fats and oils that can solidify as they cool down or when they are subjected to certain conditions, such as the temperature fluctuations often found in sewer systems. When grease hardens, it can cling to the walls of pipes, accumulating over time and forming significant blockages that impede the flow of wastewater.

This property creates a significant challenge in wastewater management because these hardened deposits are difficult to remove and can lead to backups, overflows, and costly maintenance issues. Unlike substances that have low viscosity or high solubility, which would either flow easily or dissolve in water, greasy substances that harden can become solid and persist in the sewage system, causing ongoing operational problems.