What is typically the first step in water treatment processes?

The first step in water treatment processes is coagulation. This process involves the addition of chemicals, known as coagulants, to the water, which helps to bind and agglomerate suspended particles and impurities present in the water. Through this chemical process, smaller particles clump together to form larger aggregates called flocs, which can then be more easily removed from the water in subsequent treatment steps.

Coagulation is crucial because it sets the stage for effective sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection. If coagulation is not effectively performed, the overall efficiency of the water treatment process can be compromised, leading to higher concentrations of contaminants in the finished water. The importance of coagulation makes it the foundational step in the treatment process, ensuring that the water is prepared adequately for later stages, such as sedimentation and filtration, which further enhance water quality before it undergoes disinfection.