The process of using chemicals to clot particles together is called _____ and _____.

The process of using chemicals to clot particles together is known as coagulation and flocculation. This method is essential in water treatment processes where small particles, suspended solids, and colloidal materials are present in the water. During coagulation, chemical agents, known as coagulants, are added to the water. These chemicals neutralize the charges on the particles, allowing them to come together and form larger aggregates called "flocs."

Once these flocs are formed, the process of flocculation aids in the gentle agitation or mixing of the water to encourage the growth of these aggregates, making them heavy enough to settle out of the water during the subsequent treatment processes. This combined effect helps improve the water clarity and prepares it for further purification steps, such as sedimentation or filtration. Understanding these processes is vital for efficient water treatment and ensuring water quality meets regulatory standards.

The other options describe different processes. Mixing and settling refer to distinct steps in the treatment process but do not specifically address the chemical reactions involved. Filtration and separation are techniques used to remove particles after they have been clotted but do not encompass the initial chemical process. Clarification and stabilization involve subsequent steps in water treatment to ensure the water remains clear and stable, rather than focusing