Why are nitrogen and phosphorous compounds removed from water during wastewater treatment?

A) Because they can feminize fish populations downstream.
B) Because natural waters should contain no organic materials.
C) To prevent downriver algal blooms.
D) They are not; both of these compounds are beneficial to natural waters.

Algal Blooms

Rapid increase or accumulation in the population of algae in water systems, often resulting in a discoloration of the water and causing harm to the aquatic environment, including the production of toxins that can affect animal and human health.

Nitrogen

A colorless, odorless, tasteless, gaseous element, that makes up about 78% of the earth's atmosphere and is a vital component of living organisms.

Phosphorous

A highly reactive, non-metallic element essential for life, playing a key role in the formation of DNA, RNA, and ATP, among other biological compounds.