What role does a coagulant play in water treatment?

A coagulant is a substance added during the water treatment process that facilitates the aggregation of tiny particles into larger clusters, or flocs. This is a crucial step in the removal of suspended solids, including dirt and organic matter, from the water. When coagulants are introduced to the water, they neutralize the charges on the small particles that would otherwise repel each other, allowing them to come together and form larger aggregates that can subsequently be removed through sedimentation or filtration.

This process is essential for improving the clarity and quality of drinking water, as many contaminants are too small to be filtered out effectively without coagulation. Therefore, the primary role of coagulants is to enhance the efficiency of the treatment process by promoting the removal of these minute particles, leading to cleaner and safer potable water.