Which process is essential for treating water high in organic contaminants?

The process that is essential for treating water high in organic contaminants is biological treatment. This method relies on microorganisms to break down and assimilate organic matter in the water, effectively reducing the concentration of these contaminants. Biological treatment is particularly effective because it harnesses the natural processes of bacteria and other microorganisms, which can metabolize organic substances and convert them into simpler compounds.

Furthermore, this treatment can be tailored to target specific types of organic contaminants, making it a versatile option in various water treatment scenarios. Aerobic processes, where oxygen is present, encourage the growth of bacteria that thrive on organic materials, while anaerobic processes can also be applied, especially where oxygen is limited.

In contrast, chemical coagulation, filtration, and simple chlorination are methods that may have roles in water treatment but do not specifically address the removal of high levels of organic contaminants as effectively as biological treatment does. Coagulation can help remove particulates and some dissolved substances but is not specifically designed for organic matter breakdown. Filtration plays a role in physical removal but is ineffective for dissolved organics. Simple chlorination can disinfect water but does not remove organic contaminants and can even react with certain organics to form undesirable byproducts.