What does boiling water effectively do?

Boiling water is an effective method for killing microorganisms, which include bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. The high temperatures reached during boiling (typically 100 degrees Celsius or 212 degrees Fahrenheit) are sufficient to destroy pathogens that can cause diseases. This is particularly important in ensuring the safety of drinking water, as many waterborne illnesses are attributed to these microorganisms.

While boiling can reduce the number of these harmful agents significantly, it does not remove chemical pollutants, nor does it prevent sedimentation in the water. It does not specifically target viruses over other microorganisms; rather, it is broadly effective against multiple types of pathogens. Thus, the primary reason boiling water is recommended for making it safer to drink is its ability to kill microorganisms, making it a simple and accessible method for water purification.