What role does ultraviolet (UV) light play in wastewater treatment?

Ultraviolet (UV) light is a critical component in the wastewater treatment process, specifically functioning as a disinfection method. When wastewater is treated with UV light, it effectively inactivates pathogens and microorganisms, thus preventing their spread and ensuring that the treated water is safe for discharge or further use. The UV light disrupts the DNA or RNA of these microorganisms, rendering them unable to reproduce and causing them to die off.

This method of disinfection has several advantages, including the fact that it does not introduce chemicals into the water, which is beneficial for maintaining water quality and safety. Additionally, it is effective against a broad range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, making it a reliable choice in wastewater treatment.

The other options do not accurately describe the role of UV light in the treatment process. For instance, while increasing water temperature can affect biological treatment processes, it is not the primary role of UV light. UV does not add nutrients to wastewater nor does it separate solids, both of which are functions associated with other treatment methods. This focus on disinfection highlights the importance of UV light in ensuring public health and environmental safety in wastewater management.