Which component in a wastewater treatment plant is responsible for removing large solids?

The component responsible for removing large solids in a wastewater treatment plant is screens. Screens act as a physical barrier that separates larger objects, such as sticks, leaves, and other debris, from the wastewater stream. By installing screens at the beginning of the treatment process, they help to protect downstream equipment from damage and maintain optimal functioning. This initial step is crucial, as larger solids can cause blockages and inefficiencies in later stages of treatment.

The other components listed play different roles in the wastewater treatment process. Aeration tanks are used for biological treatment, where microorganisms break down organic matter; clarifiers are involved in settling out suspended solids that have been treated; and disinfection units aim to kill pathogens before the treated water is released back into the environment. But it is the screens that specifically target large solids right at the start of the treatment process.