What term describes the standard water treatment process that includes coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection?

The term that describes the standard water treatment process, which involves coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection, is known as conventional treatment. This method is widely utilized in various water treatment facilities due to its effectiveness in removing suspended solids and pathogens from water.

Coagulation and flocculation are the initial stages where chemicals, called coagulants, are added to the water to bind particles together. This aggregation of particles forms larger clusters known as floc, which can then be efficiently removed during sedimentation. During sedimentation, the floc settles to the bottom of the treatment vessel, allowing clearer water to be separated for further processing. The next step, filtration, involves passing the clarified water through filters to eliminate any remaining particles. Finally, disinfection is essential to ensure that any microorganisms are killed or inactivated, making the water safe for consumption.

Understanding this conventional treatment process is critical for water operators, as it forms the foundation of how drinking water is typically prepared for public use, ensuring both safety and quality.