What is the role of ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the water purification systems? 1. It inactivates /kills the harmful microorganisms in water. 2. It removes all the undesirable odours from the water. 3. It quickens the sedimentation of solid particles, removes turbidity and improves the clarity of the water.

Question

GSMediumPrelims 2012Science & Technology

What is the role of ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the water purification systems?

It inactivates /kills the harmful microorganisms in water.
It removes all the undesirable odours from the water.
It quickens the sedimentation of solid particles, removes turbidity and improves the clarity of the water.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: UV radiation can effectively inactivate or kill various harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, by damaging their genetic material. This makes it an effective method for disinfecting water and eliminating waterborne pathogens.

Statement 2 is incorrect: UV radiation does not directly remove undesirable odours from water. Odour removal from water typically involves other treatment processes, such as activated carbon filtration, aeration, or chemical treatment.

Statement 3 is incorrect: UV radiation does not have a direct effect on the sedimentation of solid particles, removal of turbidity, or improving the clarity of water. These aspects are typically addressed by other physical and chemical water treatment processes, such as coagulation, flocculation, and filtration.