Which type of water treatment process primarily removes larger particles from water?

The process of sedimentation is primarily designed to remove larger particles from water. In sedimentation, water is allowed to stand undisturbed in a basin, which causes heavier particles such as sand, silt, and other solids to settle at the bottom due to gravity. This process effectively separates larger debris from the water, making it clearer and preparing it for further treatment or use.

In contrast, aeration is focused on introducing air into the water to remove dissolved gases and improve water quality, which is not about particle removal. Coagulation involves adding chemicals to water that bind small particles together to form larger aggregates, which are then removed in subsequent processes, rather than directly settling out on their own immediately. Filtration, while effective in removing smaller particles and contaminants, does not primarily target the larger particles that are the focus of the sedimentation process.