Which process helps to remove larger particles from water before filtration?

Sedimentation is a critical process in water treatment that helps to remove larger particles from water before it undergoes filtration. This process involves allowing water to stand undisturbed in a tank or basin, leading to the settling of heavier solids due to gravity. As larger particles, such as sand, silt, and organic matter, settle to the bottom, they can be removed from the water column, effectively reducing turbidity and producing cleaner water for subsequent filtration.

This preliminary step is crucial because it lessens the load on the filtration system, allowing filters to operate more efficiently and prolonging their lifespan. By removing larger contaminants, sedimentation helps ensure that the filtration phase can focus on smaller particles and other impurities that might still be present in the water. Thus, sedimentation is an essential technique in the multi-step process of water treatment, contributing to improved water quality.