What are the three main components of water treatment?

The process of water treatment typically involves three main steps: coagulation, sedimentation, and filtration.

Coagulation is the first step, where chemicals called coagulants are added to the water. These coagulants bind with particles and impurities present in the water, forming larger aggregates known as flocs. This is crucial because it helps to remove tiny particles that cannot be removed effectively through filtration alone.

Following coagulation is sedimentation, where the water is allowed to sit undisturbed in a basin or tank. This allows the flocs, now heavier due to the binding of impurities, to settle to the bottom. The removal of these settled particles is essential for improving water quality and clarity.

The final step is filtration, which further cleans the water by passing it through filter media, such as sand or gravel, to remove any remaining suspended particles and impurities that may not have settled out during the sedimentation phase. This step is vital for ensuring that the water is clear and safe for consumption.

These three components work together systematically to ensure the treatment of water is effective in removing contaminants, which is why this combination is recognized as fundamental in water treatment processes.