What is an important characteristic of a gravity filter?

A gravity filter functions based on the principle of gravity, which means that the water, or other fluids being filtered, passes through the filter media simply due to gravitational forces. This method allows for even distribution of the liquid across the surface of the filter bed, ensuring that water flows uniformly through the material. This characteristic is crucial because it aids in a more efficient filtering process, allowing solids and impurities to be trapped effectively within the media, while the cleaner liquid exits from the bottom.

This operational mechanism is inherently different from systems that rely on mechanical or chemical means for their filtration processes. Gravity filters do not necessitate constant chemical input, nor are they designed specifically to only filter solids from liquids or to facilitate chemical reactions. Rather, their primary functionality lies in utilizing natural gravitational forces to achieve effective filtration, making the even dispersal of fluid a critical aspect of their operation.