Which of the following is NOT a factor affecting filtration?

Filtration in water treatment is influenced by several important factors, and one of these is the water temperature. However, it is not typically categorized as a direct factor affecting the filtration process itself. Instead, the other factors listed play a more substantial role in determining how effectively filtration will occur.

The chemical characteristics of the water, such as pH, turbidity, and the presence of dissolved solids, can significantly impact the behavior of contaminants during filtration. These characteristics can affect both the type of filtration media used and the overall efficiency of the filtration process.

The type of filtration media is crucial as different materials have varying properties that affect their ability to capture or separate specific contaminants. Some media may have larger pores that allow easier passage for certain particles, while others may be more effective at removing fine particulates.

The degree of pretreatment is also critical, as it can determine the load and type of contaminants that reach the filtration stage. Properly pretreating water can reduce the demand on the filtration media and improve the overall efficiency of the process.

In summary, while water temperature can influence some aspects of water treatment, it does not directly affect the filtration process to the extent that the other factors do, making it the correct answer in this context.