Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). Class C Water License Exam

The process that primarily focuses on removing pathogens from water is disinfection. Disinfection involves the application of chemical agents, such as chlorine or chloramine, or physical processes like ultraviolet (UV) light, aimed specifically at eliminating or inactivating harmful microorganisms that can cause diseases in humans. This step is critical in water treatment to ensure that the water is safe for consumption, as pathogens are responsible for waterborne illnesses. While coagulation and settling are important steps in water treatment that help to remove larger particles and sediments from the water, they do not specifically target pathogens. Coagulation involves the addition of chemicals that cause particulates to clump together and form larger aggregates, which can then be removed. Filtration removes suspended solids and some microorganisms, but its primary function is not the targeted elimination of pathogens. In contrast, disinfection is explicitly designed to address this need, making it essential for producing clean and safe drinking water.