Water Nuggets Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Study Resource

Larger particle size and less dense anthracite media in a gravity filter contribute to longer filter runs and a reduced filtration rate. The larger particle size allows for increased void space between the particles, which means that there is more room for water to flow through the filter medium. Consequently, this can lead to a longer operational time before the filter needs backwashing or replacement, as the filter can hold more particulate matter without becoming clogged quickly.

However, the reduction in density also plays a crucial role. Less dense media typically has a lower capacity for trapping impurities, which generally leads to a slower filtration rate. As the flow of water through the filter is affected, it results in lower speeds of water movement. The combination of these two factors creates a situation where while the filter may run for a longer period before it requires maintenance, the overall rate at which water can pass through the filter is reduced compared to a filter with smaller, denser particles.

Therefore, the accurate conclusion drawn from this scenario is that the characteristics of the anthracite media result in prolonged filter runs paired with a decrease in the filtration rate. This understanding helps in designing and operating filtration systems effectively, ensuring optimal performance while managing maintenance schedules.