What happens to suspended solids in receiving water?

Suspended solids in receiving water typically settle to the bottom over time due to gravity, especially when the water slows down or when the solids become heavy enough to overcome the forces keeping them in suspension. This settling process can lead to the accumulation of these solids at the bottom of a water body, which can cause smothering of benthic organisms—living things that inhabit the bottom substrate. When these organisms are covered by a layer of sediment, they may struggle to access the oxygen and light they need for survival.

This accumulation also contributes to habitat degradation, affecting overall water quality and ecological balance. The settling process is a crucial aspect of environmental management because it impacts the health of aquatic ecosystems and water bodies. Understanding the fate of suspended solids helps in developing effective wastewater treatment solutions and in protecting receiving waters.