What is the role of coagulation in water treatment?

Coagulation plays a crucial role in water treatment by facilitating the removal of various contaminants and enhancing water quality. The process involves adding coagulants, typically aluminum sulfate or ferric chloride, to the water. These substances help neutralize the charges of suspended particles, allowing them to clump together into larger aggregates, known as flocs.

In terms of sedimentation, coagulation improves this process by aggregating smaller particles into larger ones, making it easier for them to settle out of the water. This is important in clarifying water and reducing the overall particulate matter present.

Additionally, coagulation is effective at removing organic contaminants. Many organic materials have negative charges, which can keep them suspended in water. By neutralizing these charges, coagulants enable the organic contaminants to bind together, facilitating their removal during sedimentation.

Lastly, coagulation plays a significant role in lowering turbidity, which is a measure of how clear water is. Turbidity is often caused by the presence of fine particles, colloids, and microorganisms. By aggregating these particles and making them easier to remove, coagulation directly contributes to clearer water.

Thus, the correct choice encompasses all aspects of coagulation's contributions to water treatment, highlighting its multifaceted role in