Which type of polymer will attract negatively charged turbidity particles?

Cationic polymers are positively charged and have a strong affinity for negatively charged particles, such as those found in turbidity. In water treatment processes, cationic polymers can effectively bind to and neutralize negatively charged turbidity particles, facilitating their agglomeration and removal from the water. This is particularly important in clarifying water, as the interaction between cationic polymers and negatively charged particles leads to enhanced coagulation and flocculation.

To further clarify, anionic polymers, which are negatively charged, would repel negatively charged turbidity particles rather than attract them, making them ineffective for this purpose. Neutral polymers do not carry a charge and are less likely to form strong interactions necessary for binding turbidity particles. While polyacrylamide can have different charges depending on its formulation, in the context of attracting negatively charged particles, it is typically used as a cationic coagulant to achieve this goal.

Thus, the use of cationic polymers is essential in water treatment for effectively managing and reducing turbidity caused by negatively charged particles.