Q. why is sodium aluminates is a better coagulates then ferrous sulphates or alum?
Ans. Sodium aluminates (NaAlO2): It is better coagulant than FeSO4 and alum because it easily hydrolyzes.
2NaAlO2 + 2H2O =2NaOH + Al (OH2)3
Sodium hydroxide formed as per the above reaction precipitates Mg+2 salts.
MgCl2 + 2NaOH = Mg (OH) 2 + 2NaCl
Both Al (OH) 3 and Mg (OH)3 are flocculent precipitates and they easily trap any finely suspended and colloidal impurities such as silica and oil.