In the context of water filtration, what does the term 'media' typically refer to?

In the context of water filtration, the term 'media' specifically refers to the materials used to filter water. This includes various substances that are designed to remove impurities and contaminants from water as it passes through the filtration system. Common filtration media can include sand, gravel, activated carbon, and various synthetic or natural materials that help in the physical or chemical processes of purification.

These media play a critical role in the effectiveness of a filtration system by providing a surface area for contaminants to adhere to and facilitating various filtration mechanisms such as depth filtration and adsorption. Proper selection and maintenance of filtration media are vital for ensuring the water quality meets safety standards and is suitable for consumption.