What is a Coagulant used for in the water treatment process?

A coagulant is a chemical agent used in the water treatment process primarily for the purpose of particle removal. When added to water, coagulants work by neutralizing the charges on suspended particles, allowing them to come together and form larger aggregates, or flocs. These flocs are then easier to remove from the water through subsequent processes such as sedimentation and filtration.

The process of coagulation is a critical step, particularly when treating water that contains high levels of turbidity or numerous microscopic particles. By facilitating the aggregation of these particles, coagulants effectively enhance the overall efficiency of the treatment process, resulting in clearer and cleaner water.

The other options relate to different functions in water treatment. Disinfection is aimed at killing pathogens, filtration specifically targets the physical removal of particles, and pH regulation involves adjusting the acidity or alkalinity of water, but that is not the primary role of a coagulant. Thus, understanding the specific role of coagulants in facilitating the removal of particulate matter underscores their importance in water treatment operations.