What is the role of Granulated Activated Carbon in water treatment?

Granulated Activated Carbon (GAC) plays a significant role in water treatment primarily through its ability to remove contaminants from water. This removal is achieved via adsorption, a process where various substances adhere to the surface of the carbon particles. GAC has a vast surface area, created by the many pores within its structure, which provides ample space for contaminants to bind.

Common applications of GAC in water treatment include the removal of organic compounds, chlorine, certain heavy metals, and odors or tastes that may be undesirable in drinking water. This makes GAC particularly valuable in processes aimed at enhancing water quality prior to distribution for consumption or other uses.

The other options do not accurately represent the functions of GAC in water treatment. Adding flavor is not a role of GAC; in fact, it is used to eliminate undesirable tastes. Increasing water hardness is not a property associated with activated carbon; hardness is typically related to the presence of calcium and magnesium ions. Lastly, lowering water temperature is not within the scope of what GAC does, as it does not have a cooling effect on water.