What device is commonly used in conjunction with salt pellets to soften water?

The device that is commonly used in conjunction with salt pellets to soften water is a water softener. Water softeners operate on the principle of ion exchange, where calcium and magnesium ions, which are responsible for water hardness, are replaced with sodium ions from the salt pellets. This process effectively reduces the hardness of the water, leading to several benefits, such as improved soap lathering and reduced mineral buildup in pipes and appliances.

The use of salt pellets is crucial because they replenish the sodium ions during the regeneration phase of the softening process, ensuring the water softener continues to function effectively. Therefore, the relationship between water softeners and salt pellets is a fundamental part of how water treatment systems manage hardness in water supplies.