Why is activated carbon filtration important in water treatment?

Why is activated carbon filtration important in water treatment?

• A. It increases water hardness
• B. It eliminates microbial contaminants
• C. It removes odors and tastes
• D. It concentrates trace elements

Answer: (C)

Activated carbon filtration is crucial in water treatment primarily because it effectively removes odors and tastes from water. This process occurs as water passes through activated carbon, which has a vast surface area and numerous tiny pores. As pollutants encounter the carbon, they adhere to its surface through absorption, which not only eliminates chlorine and other chemical tastes but also captures organic compounds that can contribute unpleasant odors. By providing this level of purification, activated carbon filtration plays a significant role in improving the overall sensory qualities of drinking water, making it more palatable and appealing to consumers. This is particularly important for maintaining public health and satisfaction with municipal water supply. The ability to enhance the smell and taste of water through this filtration process is why option C is the correct answer.

Activated carbon filtration is crucial in water treatment primarily because it effectively removes odors and tastes from water. This process occurs as water passes through activated carbon, which has a vast surface area and numerous tiny pores. As pollutants encounter the carbon, they adhere to its surface through absorption, which not only eliminates chlorine and other chemical tastes but also captures organic compounds that can contribute unpleasant odors.

By providing this level of purification, activated carbon filtration plays a significant role in improving the overall sensory qualities of drinking water, making it more palatable and appealing to consumers. This is particularly important for maintaining public health and satisfaction with municipal water supply. The ability to enhance the smell and taste of water through this filtration process is why option C is the correct answer.