What does reverse osmosis primarily achieve in water treatment?

Reverse osmosis primarily achieves the elimination of dissolved salts and contaminants in water treatment because it uses a semi-permeable membrane to separate impurities from the water. During the reverse osmosis process, water pressure forces water molecules through the membrane, allowing only the smallest and purest water molecules to pass through while rejecting larger particles and dissolved solids, such as salts, heavy metals, and various dissolved organic substances.

This technology is particularly effective at removing a wide range of contaminants, including sodium, fluoride, and even some pathogens, making it a popular choice for producing high-quality drinking water. The significance of reverse osmosis in water treatment lies in its ability to drastically reduce total dissolved solids (TDS) and other unwanted substances, resulting in cleaner and safer water.