Sodium bicarbonate finds several applications in water treatment:

1. pH Adjustment: It is used to raise the pH of acidic water, helping to neutralize acidic conditions and maintain optimal pH levels for various processes.

2. Alkalinity Enhancement: It increases the alkalinity of water, which helps in stabilizing pH and improving the efficiency of coagulation and flocculation in water purification.

3. Corrosion Control: By increasing alkalinity, sodium bicarbonate can reduce the corrosiveness of water, protecting infrastructure and pipes.

4. Precipitation of Heavy Metals: It can aid in the precipitation of heavy metals from water, making them easier to remove through filtration or sedimentation.

5. Softening Hard Water: It can assist in softening hard water by precipitating calcium and magnesium ions, which are responsible for water hardness.

6. Neutralization of Acidic Wastes: In industrial processes, it helps neutralize acidic waste streams before discharge or further treatment.

These applications make sodium bicarbonate a valuable component in maintaining and improving water quality.