Compared
Sedimentation vs. filtration
Sedimentation and filtration both remove particles, but in different ways and order. Sedimentation lets gravity pull heavier particles to the bottom of a basin, taking out the bulk of the solids. Filtration then passes the water through media like sand to strain out the finer particles left behind. Sedimentation comes first.
Last reviewed 2026-08-04
| Sedimentation | Filtration | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Gravity settling | Straining through media |
| Order | First | After sedimentation |
| Removes | Heavier, larger particles | Finer particles left behind |
| Equipment | Sedimentation basin or clarifier | Sand or media filter |
The bottom line
Sedimentation settles out the heavy particles first; filtration then strains the finer ones through media.
Common questions
- Which comes first?
- Sedimentation, then filtration.
- What does filtration catch?
- The finer particles that did not settle out during sedimentation.
- Do both remove particles?
- Yes, but sedimentation uses gravity and filtration uses straining.