View source for Water Desalination and Purification

==Introduction==
Water desalination and purification are critical processes that provide potable water from saline or contaminated water sources. These techniques are essential in regions where fresh water is scarce, and the demand for water is high. The two main methods of [[Water Desalination|desalination]] are thermal distillation and membrane processes, while purification typically involves filtration, chemical treatment, and disinfection.

==Desalination==
Desalination is the process of removing dissolved salts from water, making it suitable for drinking and irrigation. The need for desalination is growing as fresh water resources become increasingly scarce and polluted.

===Thermal Distillation===
[[Thermal Distillation|Thermal distillation]] is one of the oldest methods of desalination. It involves heating saline water to create steam, which is then condensed to produce fresh water. This process effectively separates the salts and other impurities from the water.

===Membrane Processes===
Membrane processes are a more modern method of desalination. The two primary types are reverse osmosis and electrodialysis.

====Reverse Osmosis====
[[Reverse Osmosis|Reverse osmosis]] (RO) is a process where saline water is forced through a semi-permeable membrane under pressure. The membrane allows water molecules to pass through but blocks the salts and other impurities, resulting in desalinated water.

====Electrodialysis====
[[Electrodialysis|Electrodialysis]] (ED) is another membrane process that uses electrical potential to move salts through a membrane, leaving behind desalinated water. This method is particularly effective for brackish water desalination.

==Purification==
Water purification is the process of removing undesirable chemicals, biological contaminants, suspended solids, and gases from water. The goal is to produce water fit for specific purposes, most commonly for human consumption.

===Filtration===
[[Filtration|Filtration]] is a physical process that removes particles from water by passing it through a porous material, or filter. The size of the pores in the filter determines what substances can pass through.

===Chemical Treatment===
Chemical treatment involves adding chemicals to water to remove contaminants. This includes processes like [[Coagulation and Flocculation|coagulation and flocculation]], where chemicals are added to water to bind together contaminants into larger particles that can be more easily removed.

===Disinfection===
Disinfection is a crucial step in water purification that kills or deactivates pathogenic microorganisms in water. Common methods include chlorination, ultraviolet (UV) light, and ozonation.

==Environmental Impact==
While desalination and purification provide essential water resources, they also have environmental impacts. These include energy consumption, brine disposal, and potential harm to marine life.

==Future Trends==
Advancements in technology are continually improving the efficiency and reducing the environmental impact of water desalination and purification. These include energy recovery devices, renewable energy-powered desalination, and the development of more efficient membranes for reverse osmosis.

==See Also==
* [[Water Treatment]]
* [[Water Scarcity]]
* [[Water Management]]

[[Category:Water Treatment]]
[[Category:Environmental Science]]
[[Category:Water Technology]]

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[[Image:Detail-39838.jpg|thumb|center|A modern water desalination plant located near the sea. The plant should be large and industrial-looking, with various pipes and tanks visible. The sea should be visible in the background.|class=only_on_desktop]]
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