How does UV treatment disinfect water?

Ultraviolet (UV) treatment disinfects water by exposing it to UV light, which effectively inactivates pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. The UV light penetrates the microorganisms' cell walls and disrupts their DNA or RNA, preventing them from replicating and causing infection. This method is effective because it does not require chemical additives, and it does not produce harmful byproducts often associated with chemical disinfection processes. Additionally, UV treatment is rapid and can be applied to large volumes of water, making it a widely used method for ensuring safe drinking water in various settings.

This approach is important within the context of community water management as it provides a significant barrier to waterborne diseases without altering the water's chemical composition.