Question

Which of the following gas is produced in large amounts during sludge digestion?

• A. Methane
• B. Carbon dioxide
• C. Hydrogen
• D. Nitrogen

Hint:

Methane produced during sludge digestion can be harnessed as a renewable energy source through biogas recovery systems.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

During the process of sludge digestion, particularly under anaerobic conditions (absence of oxygen), methane is produced in large amounts. This occurs because microorganisms break down organic materials in the sludge, and methane is a common by-product of anaerobic digestion.

(1) Methane Production:
- Methane is a primary product of anaerobic digestion. The microorganisms responsible for this process are called methanogens.
- This methane can be collected and used as a bioenergy source.

(2) Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
- Carbon dioxide (Option 2) is also produced during sludge digestion but in smaller amounts compared to methane.
- Hydrogen (Option 3) is produced in some specific anaerobic processes but is not the major gas produced during standard sludge digestion.
- Nitrogen (Option 4) is not typically produced in large amounts during sludge digestion, as nitrogen is more involved in other biochemical cycles like the nitrogen cycle.

Conclusion: The major gas produced in large amounts during sludge digestion is methane, a key by-product of anaerobic microbial processes.