What is an important benefit of using activated carbon in water treatment?

Activated carbon is an effective adsorbent widely used in water treatment processes primarily because it has a large surface area and porous structure, which allows it to effectively trap and remove various contaminants, including impurities and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The process of adsorption occurs when molecules of these contaminants adhere to the surface of the activated carbon, thus reducing their concentration in the water. This capability makes activated carbon particularly advantageous in improving water quality by eliminating tastes, odors, and harmful chemicals often found in municipal or source water.

Other options reflect different aspects of water treatment; for example, while mineralizing water or adding nutrients can be beneficial in certain contexts, they do not capture the primary role of activated carbon in removing specific harmful substances. Similarly, preventing corrosion typically relates to the chemical stabilization of water rather than the direct removal of impurities. The unique property of activated carbon to adsorb VOCs and various other compounds solidifies its status as a crucial component in modern water treatment systems.