What process involves clumping particles together in water treatment?

The process that involves clumping particles together in water treatment is coagulation. This is a crucial step in water purification that helps in removing suspended solids, organic matter, and other impurities. During coagulation, chemical coagulants such as alum or ferric chloride are added to the water. These coagulants neutralize the charges on particles, causing them to aggregate or clump together into larger particles called flocs. The formation of flocs facilitates their removal through subsequent processes such as sedimentation and filtration.

Understanding coagulation is essential because it lays the foundation for effective water treatment. The aggregated particles can then be easily separated from the water, improving the overall quality and safety of the water being treated. This process is distinct from disinfection, which specifically targets pathogens, and filtration, which physically removes particles without the need for chemical aggregation. Chlorination refers to the addition of chlorine for disinfection, not for the clumping of particles.