Sedimentation is a process that does what to suspended matter?

Sedimentation is a critical process in water treatment that specifically addresses the removal of suspended particles from the water. During this process, the velocity of water flow decreases, causing the heavier particles to fall to the bottom of a sedimentation basin or tank due to the force of gravity. This separation allows water to be clarified and cleaned, leaving behind a concentrated layer of solids at the bottom.

While some processes may involve recycling, enhancing, or dissolving materials, sedimentation is solely focused on the settling of solids. It plays a vital role in improving water quality by reducing turbidity and letting water move forward to further treatment steps. Understanding how sedimentation works helps water operators effectively design and manage water treatment systems to ensure high-quality water is delivered to consumers.