Final answer:
UV irradiation of drinking water is effective at killing bacteria and eukaryotic pathogens, but it does not remove odor- and taste-altering organic compounds.
Step-by-step explanation:
Treatment of drinking water by UV irradiation is effective at killing bacteria and eukaryotic pathogens, but it does NOT remove odor- and taste-altering organic compounds. Ultraviolet disinfection of water is a physical process that doesn’t involve chemicals.
UV light can inactivate microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, by damaging their DNA, making UV disinfection a very effective method for ensuring the safety of drinking water. However, this process does not remove dissolved organics, inorganic compounds, or particles, which can sometimes be responsible for odors and tastes in the water.