With pollution and shortage of water becoming a global concern, scientists and engineers strive for new ways to reuse water and create clean water sources. Reverse osmosis is a process that is widespread in many homes and industries around the globe. Reverse osmosis has a number of applications, not just for water alone, and you might be surprised in how many ways you are be acquainted with reverse osmosis.
Definition
Reverse osmosis is the process of removing, or separating, all particles and solids down to the smallest invisible salt particle from liquids.
How it Works
Reverse osmosis uses intense pressure to force liquids through a membrane or filter with holes so small that no particles can get through at all, and only the pure liquid remains.
Drinking Water
In many places around the world where there is limited potable water, reverse osmosis is used for desalination, or the removal of salt, from seawater, to provide drinkable water. Many homes in the United States also have personal reverse osmosis water filters on drinking faucets that operate on the same principle, to filter tap water through pressure and provide drinking water.
Bottled Water
Many bottled mineral waters have been through the process of reverse osmosis.
Irrigation and Farming
In dry regions of the United States, and in countries around the world without sufficient water for irrigation, rainwater undergoes reverse osmosis and is used for large-scale irrigation and industry.
Not Just for Food
Reverse osmosis, while most frequently a process for water purification, is also used for fruit juices and wines.
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