What is one benefit of using ozonation in wastewater treatment?

Ozonation is a highly effective treatment process in wastewater management that serves multiple purposes, one of which is disinfection. Using ozone as a disinfectant is advantageous because it effectively inactivates various pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, without the need for additional chemical agents. This process contributes to improved water quality and safety for discharge or reuse, aligning with regulatory standards for treated wastewater.

The ability of ozone to provide disinfection while leaving no residual chemicals is significant in preventing the formation of harmful byproducts often associated with other chemical disinfectants, such as chlorine. Additionally, ozone breaks down rapidly in water, which means it does not persist in the environment, further minimizing any potential negative impacts.

Other options may present their own advantages but do not accurately highlight the primary benefit that ozonation provides in wastewater treatment specifically concerning disinfection and chemical reduction. For example, while it may reduce energy consumption in some contexts, significant energy is required to produce ozone. The impact on BOD levels can vary, not necessarily increasing them, and equipment is still required to generate and apply ozone in the treatment process. Thus, option B best captures the core advantage of utilizing ozonation in wastewater treatment.