What is typically the first step in a water treatment process?

Coagulation is indeed typically the first step in a water treatment process. During this phase, chemicals known as coagulants, such as aluminum sulfate, are added to the water. These coagulants bind with impurities, such as dirt, sediment, and organic matter, causing them to clump together and form larger particles called flocs. This process is critical because it makes the subsequent steps of sedimentation and filtration much more efficient in removing these flocs from the water.

Once the coagulation occurs, the larger particles can settle out of the water more effectively or be filtered out in later stages of the treatment process. This initial stage is foundational, as it sets the stage for clearer and cleaner water by effectively reducing turbidity and contaminants before additional treatments, such as filtration and disinfection, are carried out. Understanding the role of coagulation helps in grasping the overall water treatment process and the importance of each step within it.