Water and Wastewater Terms Beginning B

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y Z

BOD (pronounce as separate letters)

Biochemical oxygen demand is a measure of the amount of dissolved oxygen (DO) consumed (exertion) by aerobic organisms while stabilizing decomposable organic matter under aerobic conditions. The BOD value is commonly expressed as BOD5 and refers to the milligrams of oxygen consumed per liter of water during a 5-day incubation period at 68°F (20°C). In decomposition, organic matter serves as food for the organisms and energy results from its oxidation. BOD measurements are used as a measure of the organic strength of wastes in water. Also see COD.