What does "disinfection" of water typically involve?

Disinfection of water primarily involves the addition of chlorine or other disinfecting agents to eliminate pathogens and harmful microorganisms. This process is crucial for ensuring that drinking water is safe and free from disease-causing bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Chlorination is one of the most common methods used worldwide due to its effectiveness and relatively low cost. Other disinfecting agents, such as ozone or ultraviolet light, may also be used, but the core concept remains the same: the goal is to remove or neutralize contaminants that pose health risks.

In contrast, while filtration and aeration can improve water quality by removing particulates and improving taste, they do not specifically target pathogens like chlorine does. Heating water to its boiling point can kill some microorganisms, but it is not always practical for large-scale water supply systems and doesn't address chemical contaminants. Mixing fluoride into the water serves a different purpose, primarily related to dental health rather than disinfection. Thus, the most direct and widely accepted method for disinfection remains the addition of chlorine or similar agents.