What is a common method for removing contaminants from water?

Filtration is a widely used method for removing contaminants from water. It works by passing water through a barrier or medium that retains particles, sediments, and microorganisms, allowing clean water to pass through. This method can utilize various materials, such as sand, gravel, or membranes, depending on the type and size of contaminants being targeted. Filtration can effectively remove suspended solids, bacteria, and some chemical pollutants, making it a crucial step in both municipal water treatment processes and point-of-use water purification systems.

Coagulation, sedimentation, and ion exchange are effective water treatment processes, but they focus on different aspects of contaminant removal. Coagulation involves the addition of chemicals to aggregate particles for easier removal, while sedimentation relies on gravity to settle out larger particles from the water. Ion exchange is used particularly for the removal of dissolved ions and heavy metals but is more specialized compared to filtration, making filtration the most common and versatile method for overall contaminant removal.