Components of a sewerage system: Which list correctly represents the hierarchical elements that make up a municipal sewerage system?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: House sewer, lateral sewer, branch sewer, main sewer (all of these)

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Understanding terminology and hierarchy in sewerage systems is essential for layout, capacity planning, O&M, and documentation. The system aggregates flow from premises progressively to outfall and treatment.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Standard municipal sewer network components.
  • House → lateral → branch → main → trunk/interceptor → outfall.


Concept / Approach:
The upstream-most element is the house sewer, which discharges into a lateral or branch. These collect into mains, then trunks/interceptors, finally to the outfall. A complete list should include multiple upstream elements, not just a subset.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify all major hierarchical levels.Choose the option that includes house, lateral, branch, and main sewers.


Verification / Alternative check:
Typical standard drawings and textbooks map the exact chain from building laterals to the outfall, confirming the comprehensive list.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Partial lists omit key elements and thus do not represent the full sewerage system.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Confusing “lateral” and “branch” terms; usage varies by jurisdiction but both are upstream collectors.
  • Equating “sewerage” (system) with “sewage” (wastewater) in terminology.


Final Answer:
House sewer, lateral sewer, branch sewer, main sewer (all of these)

More Questions from Waste Water Engineering

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion