What process involves positive charges absorbing to negative charged particles in water treatment?

The process in question, where positive charges absorb to negatively charged particles in water treatment, is known as charge neutralization. This phenomenon occurs when positively charged ions or particles interact with negatively charged contaminants in the water, effectively counteracting the negative charge. This interaction leads to a reduction in the repulsive forces between particles, allowing for easier aggregation and subsequent removal during water treatment processes.

In the context of water treatment, charge neutralization is crucial because many particles in water, such as colloids, have a negative charge and repel one another, making it difficult for them to come together and form larger aggregates that can settle out or be filtered. By neutralizing these charges, the particles can aggregate effectively, facilitating their removal from the water.

Understanding charge neutralization is essential for processes such as coagulation, where the formation of larger aggregates is desired, but it is distinct from coagulation itself, which involves the addition of chemicals (coagulants) that facilitate this process. While charge neutralization plays a role in coagulation, it specifically refers to the interaction of charged particles rather than the broader range of actions involved in coagulation.