During which process are flocks formed to enhance removal efficiency?

Flocks are formed during the flocculation process, which is a critical step in water treatment aimed at enhancing the removal of suspended solids and other impurities from water. During flocculation, chemical coagulants are added to the water to promote the aggregation of small particles into larger clusters known as flocs. This process typically follows coagulation, where coagulants destabilize the particles, allowing them to come together.

As the flocs grow larger, they become easier to remove in subsequent processes, such as sedimentation or filtration. The efficiency of flocculation is vital for effective water treatment, as it significantly improves the clarity and quality of the water by ensuring that the contaminants are adequately removed before further treatment stages. This mechanism is essential in ensuring safe drinking water, as it enhances the overall removal efficiency of particulate and colloidal materials from the water supply.