What is the main goal of the coagulation process in water treatment?

The primary goal of the coagulation process in water treatment is to remove contaminants from the water. Coagulation involves adding chemicals, known as coagulants, which help particles in the water to clump together. This process is essential for effectively removing suspended solids, organic matter, and microorganisms that can cause health issues if left untreated. By facilitating the aggregation of these particles into larger flocs, the coagulation process makes it easier to filter and settle them out in subsequent treatment stages, thus improving water quality and safety.

While the other options touch on aspects of water treatment, they do not capture the primary function of coagulation. Increasing water temperature, for instance, may have implications for water chemistry but is not relevant to the coagulation process. Similarly, reducing water hardness pertains to specific ion removal (like calcium and magnesium) rather than the coagulation stage. Improving aesthetic quality may occur as a result of effective coagulation but is not the main objective of the process. The focus of coagulation is fundamentally on the removal of contaminants to ensure safe and clean drinking water.