Mudballs consist of which of the following?

Mudballs are best described as aggregates formed from a combination of filter media and other materials. In water treatment processes, especially during filtration, the presence of mudballs can occur when water flows over a filter surface, mixing various materials present in the treatment system. These aggregates can contain not just the original filter media—such as anthracite, sand, or gravel—but also particulates, organic matter, and other suspended debris that can become trapped within the matrix created by the filter media.

Understanding the composition of mudballs is crucial for water treatment operators because their formation can affect the efficiency of filtration processes. If the mudballs become too large or numerous, they can impede water flow and the overall filtration capacity, potentially leading to operational challenges. Therefore, recognizing that mudballs consist of filter media and other materials informs operators about how to manage and maintain filtration systems effectively.