The term floc refers to what in the context of water treatment?

In the context of water treatment, floc refers specifically to the flecks of coagulant that contain trapped suspended matter. When water is treated with coagulants, the particles gather together to form larger aggregates, known as floc. These aggregates are effective in removing impurities and suspended particles from the water, as they enhance sedimentation by allowing solid materials to clump together and settle more efficiently.

The formation of floc is a crucial step in processes like sedimentation and filtration, as it aids in the clarification of water by making it easier to remove contaminants. Understanding this concept is essential for effective water treatment, as it highlights the role of coagulants in enhancing the removal of suspended solids, which is often a primary goal in water purification.