What process is commonly used to remove particulate matter from water?

The process commonly used to remove particulate matter from water is filtration. This method relies on physical barriers, such as sand, gravel, or membrane materials, to capture and separate suspended solids from the water. When water passes through these filters, the particulate matter is trapped, allowing clean water to flow through while leaving impurities behind.

Filtration is a crucial step in water treatment because it effectively reduces turbidity and improves water clarity. This process can be used in various settings, from municipal water treatment plants to home water filtration systems. It can involve different types of filters, such as mechanical filters and activated carbon filters, depending on the specific requirements of the water treatment process.

In contrast, the other processes listed serve different purposes. Coagulation and flocculation are typically used to aggregate smaller particles into larger particles (floc) that can then be more easily removed via sedimentation or filtration. Disinfection, on the other hand, focuses on destroying or inactivating pathogens and microorganisms in the water, rather than physically removing particulates.