How is Water Purified in a Water Purification Plant?

Water purification plants are essential for providing clean and safe drinking water to a large population. These plants are designed to remove impurities from the water that is collected from various sources like rivers, lakes, and groundwater. The process of purification is complex and involves several stages to ensure that the water is safe for consumption. In this article, we will discuss how water is purified in a water purification plant.

Step 1: Coagulation and Flocculation

The first step in water purification is coagulation and flocculation. In this stage, chemicals like alum are added to the water to cause impurities to bind together and form larger particles called floc. This process helps in the removal of dirt, sediment, and other impurities that are present in the water.

Step 2: Sedimentation

After coagulation and flocculation, the water is allowed to settle in large tanks. The floc particles settle at the bottom of the tank, and the clear water on top is removed for further treatment. The sedimentation process helps in removing most of the impurities like dirt and other particles from the water.

Step 3: Filtration

The next stage in water purification is filtration. In this stage, the water is passed through several layers of filters to remove any remaining impurities. The filters are made up of different materials like sand, gravel, and activated carbon. These filters remove any remaining dirt, sediment, or organic matter that may be present in the water.

Step 4: Disinfection

The final stage of water purification is disinfection. In this stage, the water is treated with chemicals like chlorine to remove any remaining bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms that may be present in the water. Disinfection ensures that the water is safe for consumption and does not contain any harmful microorganisms.

Conclusion

Water purification plants play an important role in providing clean and safe drinking water to the population. The process of purification involves several stages like coagulation and flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection. These stages ensure that the water is free from impurities and microorganisms and is safe for consumption. It is important to ensure that the water we drink is safe and clean to avoid any health hazards.