Water filtration:Sedimentation:

Sedimentation is the process in which heavier

particles in suspension of water settle out under
the effect of gravity. The particles that settle out
from the suspension become sediment, and in
water treatment is known as sludge.

In water treatment sedimentation is used to

reduce the concentration of particles in
suspension before the application of coagulation,
to reduce the amount of coagulating chemicals
needed, or after coagulation and, possibly,
flocculation. When sedimentation is applied after
coagulation, its purpose is usually to reduce the
concentration of solids in suspension so that the
subsequent filtration can function most
effectively
 or after coagulation and, possibly, flocculation. When sedimentation is applied after coagulation, its
purpose is usually to reduce the concentration of solids in suspension so that the subsequent filtration
can function most effectively