Flocculate

/ˈflɒkjəleɪt/ verb

Definition

To cause particles to gather together into small fluffy clumps; to form or convert into floccules.

Etymology

From 'floccul-' (small tuft of wool in Latin) plus the verb suffix '-ate.' The process describes how tiny particles bond together, common in chemistry and water treatment.

Kelly Says

Flocculation happens constantly in nature—when rivers meet salty ocean water, salt causes sediment particles to flocculate and drop out, which is why river mouths are muddy!

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