What process involves removing specific compounds from wastewater on solid surfaces?

The process of removing specific compounds from wastewater on solid surfaces is known as adsorption. In adsorption, contaminants in the water are attracted and adhere to the surface of a solid material, which is typically referred to as an adsorbent. This solid surface can be activated carbon, zeolites, or other materials specifically designed to capture targeted pollutants, such as heavy metals or organic compounds.

Adsorption is a vital process in wastewater treatment because it allows for the efficient removal of specific contaminants at the molecular level, often achieving lower concentrations than other methods. The strength of binding can be influenced by several factors, including temperature, pH, and the nature of the molecules involved.

This process is distinctly different from others like sedimentation, which relies on the settling of particles due to gravity, and filtration, where physical barriers separate particles from the liquid. Chemical precipitation involves a chemical reaction that converts dissolved substances into solid particles, which can then be removed, but it does not specifically utilize solid surfaces for the removal of select compounds. Adsorption's unique mechanism makes it particularly effective for targeting specific pollutants in diverse wastewater applications.