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

What is considered the most important treatment process in water purification?

1. Filtration

2. Reverse osmosis

3. Disinfection

4. Coagulation

The correct answer is: Disinfection

Disinfection is widely recognized as the most crucial step in the water purification process. The primary goal of disinfection is to eliminate pathogenic microorganisms that can cause diseases, ensuring that the water is safe for human consumption. Common disinfection methods include chlorination, ultraviolet radiation, and ozonation, each of which effectively targets harmful bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. While other processes, like filtration and coagulation, play essential roles in removing suspended solids and other contaminants, they do not specifically target pathogens. For instance, filtration primarily focuses on physical removal of particles, and coagulation helps in aggregating these particles for easier removal, but neither guarantees the elimination of microorganisms. Reverse osmosis is also an effective method for removing a broad spectrum of contaminants, including some pathogens, but it is not as effective at inactivating them as disinfection is. In summary, disinfection is vital because it directly addresses the health risks posed by microorganisms in water, making it the most important treatment process in ensuring safe drinking water.