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.