What does a flocculator-clarifier combine in its function?

A flocculator-clarifier is a critical component in water treatment processes, particularly in the removal of suspended particles and impurities from water. Its primary functions are mixing, flocculation, and sedimentation.

Mixing is the initial step where chemicals, such as coagulants, are added to the water. This step ensures that the coagulant effectively interacts with suspended particles to destabilize them.

Flocculation follows, where the destabilized particles clump together to form larger aggregates known as flocs. This process is essential because larger flocs are easier to remove from the water during the sedimentation phase.

Finally, sedimentation is the stage where the flocs settle to the bottom of the clarifier under the influence of gravity, thus separating them from the clarified water. The sedimentation process leads to the removal of these aggregates, resulting in cleaner water that can undergo further treatment, if necessary.

By combining these three essential functions—mixing, flocculation, and sedimentation—a flocculator-clarifier effectively transforms raw water into a clearer and more acceptable quality for distribution or further treatment. Other options may include processes that do not directly address the primary functions of a flocculator-clarifier, making them less relevant