How do physical water treatment methods differ from chemical methods?

Physical water treatment methods primarily involve mechanical processes to remove contaminants from water, such as filtration, sedimentation, and flotation. These techniques operate on the principle of physical separation or removal, utilizing screens, membranes, or gravity to eliminate particles, sediments, and other impurities without altering the chemical composition of the water.

In contrast, chemical water treatment methods involve introducing chemical agents that react with contaminants to facilitate their removal or neutralization. This can include processes such as coagulation, chlorination, or disinfection, where the added chemicals actively interact with the substances in the water, changing their properties or forming new compounds that can be more easily eliminated.

Therefore, the distinction lies in the approach: physical methods focus on mechanical means of separation, while chemical methods are based on reactions that change the water's chemical makeup. Understanding this difference is crucial for selecting appropriate treatment strategies based on the specific contaminants present and the desired water quality outcomes.