18. How does the Clean Water Act influence the operations of wastewate a. It allows plants to discharge untreated wastewater into rivers b. It sets regulations for the quality of water that can be released back int c. It mandates the use of specific chemicals in treatment processes d. It has no impact on wastewater treatment operations

## Step 1<br />The Clean Water Act is a significant piece of legislation in the United States that regulates the discharge of pollutants into the nation's water bodies. This act is designed to ensure that water bodies are clean and safe for human use and the environment.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />The Clean Water Act does not allow plants to discharge untreated wastewater into rivers. This would be a violation of the act's regulations.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />The Clean Water Act does not mandate the use of specific chemicals in treatment processes. While it does regulate the discharge of pollutants, it does not dictate the specific chemicals to be used in treatment processes.<br /><br />## Step 4<br />The Clean Water Act does not have no impact on wastewater treatment operations. In fact, it plays a crucial role in regulating the discharge of pollutants into water bodies, which includes wastewater treatment operations.<br /><br />## Step 5<br />The Clean Water Act sets regulations for the quality of water that can be released back into the environment. This is done to ensure that the water is clean and safe for human use and the environment.