What purification method uses ultraviolet light?

Ultraviolet (UV) disinfection is a purification method that utilizes ultraviolet light to inactivate or kill microorganisms in water. This process works by exposing water to UV light at a specific wavelength, typically around 254 nanometers, which disrupts the DNA or RNA of pathogens, rendering them unable to replicate and cause infection.

This method is highly effective against a wide range of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, making it a popular choice for ensuring water safety without the use of chemicals. Unlike filtration, which physically removes particles, or chlorination, which introduces chemicals to eliminate pathogens, UV disinfection employs a physical process that does not alter the chemical composition of the water.

Moreover, UV disinfection operates without the need for storage or residual chemical treatment, providing immediate treatment as water flows through the system. This characteristic makes it particularly advantageous in situations where maintaining water quality is critical, such as in drinking water systems or for sensitive environments like aquariums and hospitals.

In contrast, methods like reverse osmosis rely on membrane technology to remove contaminants, while chlorination involves adding chlorine compounds to water, which can leave residual tastes or potentially harmful by-products. Therefore, the use of ultraviolet light specifically for disinfection purposes underscores its importance in the