What is the process of adding air to water called?

The process of adding air to water is known as aeration. Aeration is a crucial treatment step in water purification that involves introducing air into water, allowing for the exchange of gases. This process enhances the removal of dissolved gases, such as carbon dioxide, and volatiles, as well as aids in the oxidation of certain contaminants, like iron and manganese, improving water quality.

The role of aeration is particularly important in reducing taste and odor issues in drinking water and making subsequent treatment processes more efficient, such as filtration or disinfection. By promoting the movement and interaction between air and water, it also helps to improve overall water clarity and quality, making it safer for consumption.

While ozonation, chlorination, and flocculation are related to water treatment, each serve distinct purposes. Ozonation involves adding ozone gas for disinfection and oxidation, chlorination uses chlorine for similar disinfection purposes, and flocculation refers to the process where fine particulates clump together to form larger aggregates for easier removal. These processes do not specifically involve the addition of air in the same manner as aeration does.