What is the main distinction between coagulation and flocculation processes?

The main distinction between coagulation and flocculation lies in the mechanisms and methods used in each process. Coagulation typically involves the addition of chemical coagulants to destabilize suspended particles in water, which allows them to clump together. This process is characterized by rapid mixing to evenly distribute the chemicals and promote the initial formation of aggregates.

On the other hand, flocculation follows coagulation and is a gentler process that encourages the growth of these aggregates into larger clumps, or flocs. During flocculation, the water is mixed slowly to prevent breaking apart these larger aggregates while allowing them to settle more effectively. This separation relies on the physical movement of water rather than just the chemical action.

Thus, the distinction that coagulation deals with the initial chemical mixing and destabilization of particles, while flocculation focuses on the gentle stirring to facilitate the aggregation and settling of those particles into larger flocs, underscores the complementary roles these processes play in water treatment.