Which method is hinted to be less reliable compared to filtration for Cryptosporidium removal?

Which method is hinted to be less reliable compared to filtration for Cryptosporidium removal?

• A. Ultraviolet treatment
• B. Chlorine treatment
• C. Microfiltration
• D. Activated carbon treatment

Answer: (B)

Chlorine treatment is suggested to be less reliable for the removal of Cryptosporidium compared to filtration methods. This is primarily because Cryptosporidium has a protective oocyst that is resistant to chlorine disinfection. While chlorine is effective against many pathogens, it does not consistently inactivate Cryptosporidium. As a result, using chlorine alone may not sufficiently reduce the concentration of these oocysts in drinking water, which poses a health risk if ingested. Filtration methods, such as microfiltration or ultrafiltration, are designed to physically remove particles based on size. Since Cryptosporidium oocysts are relatively large (about 4-6 microns), filtration can effectively separate these pathogens from the water. This makes filtration a preferred method for ensuring the removal of Cryptosporidium in water treatment processes. Therefore, while chlorine can be a part of a comprehensive water treatment strategy, it lacks the reliability needed for effective Cryptosporidium removal, reinforcing the importance of filtration as a primary control method for this specific contaminant.

Chlorine treatment is suggested to be less reliable for the removal of Cryptosporidium compared to filtration methods. This is primarily because Cryptosporidium has a protective oocyst that is resistant to chlorine disinfection. While chlorine is effective against many pathogens, it does not consistently inactivate Cryptosporidium. As a result, using chlorine alone may not sufficiently reduce the concentration of these oocysts in drinking water, which poses a health risk if ingested.

Filtration methods, such as microfiltration or ultrafiltration, are designed to physically remove particles based on size. Since Cryptosporidium oocysts are relatively large (about 4-6 microns), filtration can effectively separate these pathogens from the water. This makes filtration a preferred method for ensuring the removal of Cryptosporidium in water treatment processes.

Therefore, while chlorine can be a part of a comprehensive water treatment strategy, it lacks the reliability needed for effective Cryptosporidium removal, reinforcing the importance of filtration as a primary control method for this specific contaminant.