What are the key categories of water treatment processes?

The key categories of water treatment processes are correctly identified as physical, chemical, and biological processes.

Physical processes involve methods that use physical means to remove contaminants from water, such as sedimentation, filtration, and adsorption. These processes rely on the physical properties of the water and its contaminants, such as size and density, to separate impurities from the water.

Chemical processes are those that utilize chemical reactions to treat water. This includes processes such as coagulation and flocculation, disinfection (like chlorination), and oxidation, which help to remove or neutralize harmful substances in the water through chemical interactions.

Biological processes involve the use of living organisms to treat water, particularly in the breakdown of organic matter. This can include methods like activated sludge systems or biofilters, where microorganisms degrade pollutants, aiding in the purification of water.

The combination of these three categories—physical, chemical, and biological—enables comprehensive treatment strategies that address a wide array of water quality issues, making them essential for effective water treatment operations. Other options, while mentioning processes, do not represent the typical and recognized categories found in water treatment practice.