What is the primary function of sedimentation in water treatment?

The primary function of sedimentation in water treatment is to separate solids from liquid. This process involves allowing water to sit in a basin or tank, where the heavier solid particles can settle at the bottom due to gravity. As sedimentation occurs, the denser particles, such as silt and sand, will settle out of the water column, resulting in clearer water above. This step is crucial in water treatment because it reduces the overall load of suspended solids before further treatment processes, contributing to improved water quality and efficiency in subsequent filtration or disinfection stages.

While the other options mention various aspects of water treatment, they do not relate specifically to the function of sedimentation. For instance, removing dissolved contaminants typically requires additional methods such as chemical treatment or advanced filtration techniques. Distributing chemicals evenly is a separate process involving chemical addition, while cooling water does not connect with the sedimentation process, which primarily focuses on the physical separation of particulate matter.