What is the primary purpose of disinfection in water treatment?

The primary purpose of disinfection in water treatment is to inactivate pathogenic organisms. This process is essential for ensuring that the water is safe for human consumption, as pathogenic microorganisms can pose significant health risks. Disinfection methods, such as chlorination, UV treatment, or ozonation, target harmful bacteria, viruses, and protozoa present in the water supply.

While it is important to reduce the overall microbial load in the water, complete destruction of all organisms is not practical or necessary for effective treatment. Many organisms in water play beneficial roles, and total elimination would not only be challenging but could also disrupt ecosystem balance.

Additionally, disinfection does not directly involve the removal of impurities and sediments, which are typically handled by filtration processes, nor does it adjust the pH of the water, which is managed through chemical additions or other treatment methods. The focus of disinfection is specifically on enhancing water safety by targeting pathogens, which is crucial for preventing waterborne diseases.