What factor directly influences how quickly water flows through a filtration system?

The speed at which water flows through a filtration system is significantly influenced by filter pore size. This is because the pore size determines the spaces through which water can pass, as well as how easily contaminants are trapped. Smaller pores create more resistance to flow, which can slow down the rate at which water passes through the filter. Conversely, larger pores allow for faster flow rates but might not effectively capture smaller contaminants. Therefore, the pore size is a critical aspect of a filtration system's design as it directly impacts flow efficiency and the system's overall performance in purifying water.

In contrast, while water temperature can affect viscosity and therefore flow rates indirectly, it does not directly influence the structural parameters of the filter itself. Filter capacity refers to the amount of contaminants and debris a filter can hold before needing to be replaced or cleaned, which impacts the longevity and efficiency of the filter rather than immediately affecting the flow rate. The type of contaminants may influence the selection of the filter but does not directly define how quickly water can flow through the filtration system.