Which treatment method is effective for removing heavy metals from water?

Reverse osmosis is the most effective treatment method for removing heavy metals from water due to its ability to separate contaminants at the molecular level. This process uses a semi-permeable membrane that allows water molecules to pass through while blocking larger particles, including heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, and mercury. The pressure-driven nature of reverse osmosis forces water through the membrane, effectively concentrating and removing undesirable substances.

In contrast, while filtration can assist in removing some larger particles and sediments, it is often not fine enough to eliminate heavy metals, which can pass through standard filter media. Chlorination is primarily used for disinfection purposes to kill bacteria and viruses rather than for heavy metal removal. Coagulation can help in forming larger clusters of suspended particles, making them easier to remove through sedimentation or filtration, but it is not specifically designed for heavy metals removal and may only have a limited effect.

Overall, reverse osmosis stands out as the most reliable method for ensuring that heavy metals are adequately filtered out from water sources, providing greater safety and quality in water treatment.