What does coagulation accomplish in water treatment?

What does coagulation accomplish in water treatment?

• A. It causes tiny particles to clump together into floc that settles more readily.
• B. It removes dissolved minerals completely.
• C. It disinfection water directly.
• D. It increases chlorine demand.

Answer: (A)

Coagulation aims to convert stable, tiny colloidal particles into larger, settleable floc. By adding coagulants, the surface charges on these particles are neutralized, allowing them to collide and stick together. The resulting larger aggregates (floc) are heavy enough to settle in a clarifier or be captured by filters, making the water clearer and easier to treat. This step improves downstream removal and helps disinfection work more effectively because there are fewer particles and microbes to contend with. It does not remove dissolved minerals, it does not disinfect directly, and it does not increase chlorine demand.

Coagulation aims to convert stable, tiny colloidal particles into larger, settleable floc. By adding coagulants, the surface charges on these particles are neutralized, allowing them to collide and stick together. The resulting larger aggregates (floc) are heavy enough to settle in a clarifier or be captured by filters, making the water clearer and easier to treat. This step improves downstream removal and helps disinfection work more effectively because there are fewer particles and microbes to contend with. It does not remove dissolved minerals, it does not disinfect directly, and it does not increase chlorine demand.