Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Water purification is the process of removing contaminants and impurities from water to make it safe for consumption or use. It involves various methods such as filtration, disinfection, and chemical treatments.
Related terms
Desalination: The process of removing salt and other minerals from seawater to make it suitable for drinking or irrigation.
Coagulation: The process of adding chemicals to water to form clumps that can be easily removed, helping in the removal of suspended particles.
Reverse Osmosis: A method that uses pressure to force water through a semipermeable membrane, effectively removing contaminants and impurities.