What role does ozone play in water treatment?

Ozone plays a critical role in water treatment primarily because it serves as a powerful oxidant and disinfectant. Its strong oxidative characteristics make it effective in breaking down and reducing organic compounds present in water, which is essential for improving water quality. Additionally, ozone is highly effective at killing microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites, thereby helping to ensure the safety of drinking water.

The use of ozone in water treatment goes beyond just disinfection. It also aids in the removal of taste and odor compounds, although its primary function in this regard is related to its ability to oxidize various substances. Its effectiveness is significant because it can help reduce the levels of potentially harmful organic chemicals, making the water safer and more palatable.

In contrast, ozone does not function to increase the pH of water or act as a flocculant in sedimentation processes. These roles are fulfilled by other chemicals and methods in water treatment. Therefore, the main purpose of ozone in this context is its dual capability as an oxidant and disinfectant, which is fundamental for effective water treatment processes.