What is the primary function of sand filters?

The primary function of sand filters is to remove suspended solids from water. Sand filters operate through a physical process where water flows through layers of sand, effectively trapping particles, sediments, and other solid debris present in the water. This filtration process is essential for enhancing water clarity and quality, making it suitable for various applications such as drinking, irrigation, and industrial use.

While sterilization and the removal of dissolved solids are important processes in water treatment, these are not the main functions of sand filters. Sterilization typically requires chemical treatments or other advanced processes like UV irradiation, and dissolved solids often require different methods such as reverse osmosis or ion exchange systems for effective removal. Similarly, aeration is a separate treatment process aimed at increasing oxygen levels in water and is not a function performed by sand filters. Therefore, the role of sand filters as a means of eliminating suspended solids stands out as their primary function.