What does the term 'decant' refer to in water treatment?

What does the term 'decant' refer to in water treatment?

• A. To mix water thoroughly
• B. To remove solid particles from a mixture
• C. To draw off liquid without disturbing sediment
• D. To introduce chemicals into water

Answer: (C)

Decanting in water treatment refers specifically to the process of carefully drawing off liquid from a mixture without disturbing any settled solids or sediment. This technique is essential in treating water as it allows for the separation of clearer water from particulate matter or settled solids, which can include silt and other contaminants. The method is particularly useful after processes such as sedimentation, where solids have settled to the bottom of a tank or container, allowing for the removal of the supernatant liquid for further treatment or distribution. In contrast, mixing water thoroughly involves agitation and is aimed at blending different components, such as chemicals or water sources, which is not the focus of decanting. Removing solid particles from a mixture usually refers to filtration or another process that actively separates solids from liquids, rather than the gentle separation that decanting provides. Introducing chemicals into water pertains to the dosing process in treatment protocols, which involves adding chemical agents to achieve certain water quality goals. Each of these processes has its own distinct purpose and method within water treatment, establishing why decanting is recognized specifically for its gentle liquid separation capability.

Decanting in water treatment refers specifically to the process of carefully drawing off liquid from a mixture without disturbing any settled solids or sediment. This technique is essential in treating water as it allows for the separation of clearer water from particulate matter or settled solids, which can include silt and other contaminants. The method is particularly useful after processes such as sedimentation, where solids have settled to the bottom of a tank or container, allowing for the removal of the supernatant liquid for further treatment or distribution.

In contrast, mixing water thoroughly involves agitation and is aimed at blending different components, such as chemicals or water sources, which is not the focus of decanting. Removing solid particles from a mixture usually refers to filtration or another process that actively separates solids from liquids, rather than the gentle separation that decanting provides. Introducing chemicals into water pertains to the dosing process in treatment protocols, which involves adding chemical agents to achieve certain water quality goals. Each of these processes has its own distinct purpose and method within water treatment, establishing why decanting is recognized specifically for its gentle liquid separation capability.