Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Disinfection is the process of killing or inactivating disease-causing microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses, to make water safe for consumption. It involves using chemical or physical methods to eliminate harmful pathogens.
Related terms
Chlorination: The process of adding chlorine to water for disinfection purposes.
UV sterilization: A method that uses ultraviolet light to kill or deactivate pathogens in water.
Ozone treatment: The use of ozone gas to disinfect water by destroying microorganisms.