Why is maintaining alkalinity important during coagulation, and what happens if alkalinity is too low?

Why is maintaining alkalinity important during coagulation, and what happens if alkalinity is too low?

• A. Alkalinity reduces pH; low alkalinity increases coagulant effectiveness.
• B. Alkalinity buffers pH changes; low alkalinity can cause pH to drop, reducing coagulant effectiveness and increasing corrosion risk.
• C. Alkalinity has no role; it's only a taste issue.
• D. Alkalinity increases Al2(SO4)3 solubility.

Answer: (B)