What is the primary function of microfiltration in water treatment?

Microfiltration serves as a physical barrier in water treatment processes, effectively removing larger particles, bacteria, and some viruses from water. This process utilizes a membrane with very small pores, typically ranging from 0.1 to 10 microns in diameter. As water passes through the microfiltration membrane, suspended solids, pathogens, and other contaminants that exceed the pore size are blocked, thereby enhancing the quality of the water.

The method is significant because it operates without the addition of chemicals, relying instead on physical separation, making it a crucial step in ensuring the microbiological safety of potable water. Its efficacy at removing particulate matter also contributes to the overall effectiveness of subsequent treatment processes, such as reverse osmosis or ultraviolet disinfection.

In contrast, the other choices describe processes that either do not involve the removal of contaminants or pertain to different aspects of water treatment and enhancement. These processes include chemical methods, taste enhancement, or mineral addition, which do not primarily focus on the physical filtration of particles and microorganisms from the water supply.