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Learn about different sewage and wastewater treatment methods.
• Water Science School HOME • Water Science Q&As •
How is sewage and wastewater treated?
Different treatment is used depending on the source of your water. Groundwater taken from wells has been filtered through rocks, so it is usually quite free of particles. It can still contain chemicals and organic matter that must be taken out, though.
If your water comes from a surface-water source, such as a river or lake, some work must be done to get rid of particulate matter. Often water is withdrawn and pumped into holding ponds or containers, where solids and particles can settle to the bottom. Possibly filters and sand beds are used to screen out particulate matter, and at a minimum, chlorine is added to kill dangerous bacteria and microorganisms.
Learn about different sewage and wastewater treatment methods.
• Water Science School HOME • Water Science Q&As •
How is sewage and wastewater treated?
Different treatment is used depending on the source of your water. Groundwater taken from wells has been filtered through rocks, so it is usually quite free of particles. It can still contain chemicals and organic matter that must be taken out, though.
If your water comes from a surface-water source, such as a river or lake, some work must be done to get rid of particulate matter. Often water is withdrawn and pumped into holding ponds or containers, where solids and particles can settle to the bottom. Possibly filters and sand beds are used to screen out particulate matter, and at a minimum, chlorine is added to kill dangerous bacteria and microorganisms.