Which disinfectant method uses an unstable molecule of oxygen that readily donates an oxygen atom, acting as a powerful oxidizing agent toxic to most waterborne organisms?

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Multiple Choice

Which disinfectant method uses an unstable molecule of oxygen that readily donates an oxygen atom, acting as a powerful oxidizing agent toxic to most waterborne organisms?

Explanation:
Ozone is the disinfectant described. It is a highly reactive, unstable form of oxygen (O3) that readily donates an oxygen atom to attack and oxidize key cellular components of microorganisms—lipids in membranes, proteins, and nucleic acids—causing their inactivation. This strong oxidative action makes it toxic to most waterborne organisms. Unlike ozone, chlorination uses stable chlorine species to oxidize, UV disinfection relies on light to damage genetic material, and boiling kills microbes by heat rather than chemical oxidation.

Ozone is the disinfectant described. It is a highly reactive, unstable form of oxygen (O3) that readily donates an oxygen atom to attack and oxidize key cellular components of microorganisms—lipids in membranes, proteins, and nucleic acids—causing their inactivation. This strong oxidative action makes it toxic to most waterborne organisms. Unlike ozone, chlorination uses stable chlorine species to oxidize, UV disinfection relies on light to damage genetic material, and boiling kills microbes by heat rather than chemical oxidation.

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