What is an essential step in the treatment of water to eliminate harmful microorganisms?

Disinfection is an essential step in the treatment of water specifically aimed at eliminating harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. This process employs various methods, including chlorination, ultraviolet (UV) light treatment, and ozonation, to ensure that the water is safe for human consumption and use.

The significance of disinfection lies in its ability to effectively inactivate a wide range of pathogens that can pose health risks. It serves as the final barrier between treated water and public health, making it a critical part of water treatment systems.

Other processes like coagulation, filtration, and aggregation play important roles in the overall water treatment process. Coagulation helps in the removal of suspended particles by causing them to clump together, while filtration is used to physically remove those clumps as well as smaller particulates. However, neither of these methods specifically targets and eliminates microorganisms, which is why disinfection is regarded as an indispensable step in ensuring safe drinking water.