Red Seal Plumbing Practice Exam

The septic chamber contains ______ bacteria that assist in the breakdown of the sewage.

1. Aerobic

2. Anaerobic

3. Pathogenic

4. Beneficial

The correct answer is: Anaerobic

The septic chamber contains anaerobic bacteria that assist in the breakdown of the sewage. Aerobic bacteria require oxygen to survive and therefore would not be found in a septic system which is typically oxygen-depleted. Pathogenic bacteria are harmful and cause diseases, they would not be beneficial in the breaking down of sewage. Beneficial bacteria and anaerobic bacteria are both correct answers, but anaerobic is more specific and accurate for the context given. However, both terms can be used interchangeably in this context.