What is powdered activated carbon primarily used to control?

• A. Heavy metals in water
• B. Inorganic compounds
• C. Organic compounds responsible for tastes and odors
• D. Microbial contaminants

Answer: (C)

Powdered activated carbon (PAC) is primarily used to control organic compounds responsible for tastes and odors in water due to its highly porous structure and large surface area, which allow it to effectively adsorb various organic pollutants. These organic compounds often come from natural sources, like algae and decaying vegetation, or can be introduced from industrial processes. By using PAC, water treatment facilities can significantly improve the aesthetic qualities of drinking water, making it more palatable and appealing to consumers.

This effectiveness is rooted in the chemical and physical properties of activated carbon, which attract and bind to organic molecules, thus removing them from the water. While powdered activated carbon does have some capacity to adsorb inorganic compounds and can influence microbial contaminants to a degree, its primary focus is on eliminating organic substances that contribute to undesirable tastes and odors.