How does disinfection work in wastewater treatment?

How does disinfection work in wastewater treatment?

• A. By increasing the water temperature
• B. By using chemicals or UV light to kill pathogens
• C. By filtering out large particles
• D. By adding minerals to the water

Answer: (B)

Disinfection in wastewater treatment primarily works by using chemicals or UV light to kill pathogens. This process is essential to ensure that the water is safe for discharge into the environment or for potential reuse. Chemicals such as chlorine, ozone, or hydrogen peroxide can be added to the water to eliminate microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, which can pose health risks if left untreated. Ultraviolet (UV) light is another effective method of disinfection, where pathogens are exposed to UV light, rendering them inactive and incapable of causing disease. This method is increasingly favored due to its ability to avoid the chemical residues that can remain in water after treatment. Disinfection does not involve increasing the water temperature, filtering out large particles, or adding minerals. Instead, its primary focus is on targeting harmful microorganisms to protect public health and the environment.

Disinfection in wastewater treatment primarily works by using chemicals or UV light to kill pathogens. This process is essential to ensure that the water is safe for discharge into the environment or for potential reuse. Chemicals such as chlorine, ozone, or hydrogen peroxide can be added to the water to eliminate microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, which can pose health risks if left untreated.

Ultraviolet (UV) light is another effective method of disinfection, where pathogens are exposed to UV light, rendering them inactive and incapable of causing disease. This method is increasingly favored due to its ability to avoid the chemical residues that can remain in water after treatment.

Disinfection does not involve increasing the water temperature, filtering out large particles, or adding minerals. Instead, its primary focus is on targeting harmful microorganisms to protect public health and the environment.