Filtration and disinfection processes are characteristic of which water treatment?

• A. Wastewater treatment
• B. Drinking water treatment
• C. Desalination
• D. Industrial water treatment

Answer: (B)

Filtration and disinfection are hallmark steps in producing water that is safe for human consumption. In drinking water treatment, the goal is to remove particulates and pathogens so the water meets safety standards before it’s distributed. Filtration using sand or other media physically removes remaining fine particles and some microorganisms, while disinfection (chlorination, chloramines, ozone, or UV) inactivates any lingering microbes. This combination is the defining sequence for potable water treatment, ensuring the water is clear and free of disease-causing organisms when it reaches consumers.

Wastewater treatment concentrates on reducing organic matter, nutrients, and pollutants to protect the environment and meet discharge or reuse standards; disinfection may be used for effluent, but filtration isn’t the defining feature. Desalination centers on removing salts with membranes or thermal processes; disinfection may be added, but it isn’t the defining characteristic. Industrial water treatment is tailored to process needs and often focuses on scaling, corrosion control, and specific contaminant limits rather than the standard filtration-plus-disinfection sequence.