What is denitrification primarily used for in wastewater treatment?

Denitrification is a crucial biochemical process in wastewater treatment primarily aimed at converting combined nitrogen, typically in the form of nitrates and nitrites, into nitrogen gas. This process significantly reduces the levels of nitrogen compounds in the wastewater, which are contributors to water pollution, particularly in causing eutrophication in aquatic systems. Eutrophication leads to excessive algae growth, which can harm water quality and aquatic life.

During the denitrification process, specific bacteria utilize nitrates as an electron acceptor in the absence of oxygen, reducing them to nitrogen gas, which is then released into the atmosphere. This conversion is vital, as it effectively removes nitrogen from the water, preventing negative environmental impacts.

The other options relate to different processes and do not directly pertain to the objectives of denitrification in wastewater treatment.