What does the term 'flocculation' refer to in water treatment?

Flocculation is a crucial process in water treatment, specifically referring to the agglomeration of fine particulates into a floc. In this context, the term describes how small particles, which may be suspended in water, come together to form larger clusters or aggregates, known as floc. This process typically follows coagulation, where chemicals are added to destabilize the particles, facilitating their aggregation.

Once floc is formed, it becomes easier to remove these larger particles from the water, either through sedimentation or filtration. The effectiveness of flocculation is vital for improving water clarity and ensuring that water is safe for consumption or further treatment. By transforming tiny, suspended particles into larger, manageable clusters, flocculation plays a key role in enhancing the overall efficiency of water treatment processes.