The amount of oxygen that can be dissolved in water decreases as the temperature of the water increases. Is this statement true or false?

The statement is true. Oxygen solubility in water is influenced by temperature; as the temperature rises, the ability of water to hold dissolved gases like oxygen decreases. This phenomenon occurs because higher temperatures give water molecules increased kinetic energy, causing them to move more vigorously. As a result, the interactions between water molecules and oxygen molecules weaken, leading to a lower concentration of dissolved oxygen.

This is particularly significant in wastewater treatment processes, as oxygen is crucial for aerobic organisms that help break down pollutants. Knowing the relationship between temperature and oxygen solubility helps operators monitor and manage conditions in treatment plants to ensure sufficient oxygen levels for microbial activity, ultimately leading to more effective treatment outcomes. The options referring to varying factors like water salinity or a false statement do not directly address this fundamental principle of gas solubility in water.