This word calls attention to information that is especially significant in understanding and operating equipment or processes safely. Nitrogen and phosphorus are nutrients which promote the growth of algae. There are other essential and trace elements which are also considered nutrients. The transformation or change of a nutrient from one form to another until the nutrient has returned to the original form, thus completing the cycle. The cycle may take place under either aerobic or anaerobic conditions.
Major nutrients are carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, sulfur, nitrogen and phosphorus.
Nitrogen and phosphorus are difficult to remove from wastewater by conventional treatment processes because they are water soluble and tend to recycle.