Coagulation and flocculation are two distinct but sequential processes used in water treatment to remove suspended particles, making the water clearer. The fundamental difference lies in the size and nature of the particles formed and the mechanisms by which they are created.
Coagulation is the initial step, involving the destabilization of tiny, dispersed particles suspended in the water. These particles, often colloidal, are so small (typically less than 1 micron) that they remain suspended due to electrostatic charges and the surrounding water molecules. They repel each other, preventing them from settling or being easily filtered. Coagulation introduces positively charged chemicals, called coagulants, into the water. Common coagulants include ....
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