Allikaviitamist

Allikaviitamist, also known as water purification, is a process used to make water safe for drinking and other domestic uses. This involves removing impurities, pathogens, and undesirable substances that can cause illness or affect the taste and appearance of water. Various methods are employed depending on the source of the water and the specific contaminants present.

Common methods include physical filtration, which uses screens or membranes to trap larger particles. Chemical disinfection is another crucial step, often involving the addition of chlorine or ozone to kill harmful microorganisms like bacteria and viruses. Boiling water is a simple yet effective method for killing pathogens, particularly in situations where other purification methods are unavailable. UV (ultraviolet) radiation is also used, where ultraviolet light damages the DNA of microorganisms, preventing them from reproducing.

In larger municipal water treatment plants, a multi-stage approach is typically used. This often begins with coagulation and flocculation, where chemicals are added to clump together suspended particles, making them easier to remove through sedimentation and filtration. Activated carbon filters can be used to remove dissolved organic compounds, chlorine, and other substances that affect taste and odor. Finally, disinfection ensures the water is safe for distribution. The specific combination of techniques employed is tailored to the raw water quality and regulatory standards for safe drinking water.