Final answer:
Contaminated means the introduction of harmful substances into water. Water contamination due to pathogens including protozoa can lead to various diseases. Water treatment is essential for making contaminated water safe for consumption.
Step-by-step explanation:
When water becomes 'contaminated', it typically means that harmful substances have been introduced into it. In the context of waterborne diseases, contamination occurs when water is polluted with pathogens, such as protozoa, bacteria, and viruses, which can cause illnesses in humans. Contaminated water can cause a variety of intestinal diseases like dysentery, cholera, and giardiasis, and it is a significant global health issue. Water treatment measures like chlorination or using ozone can reduce the presence of these pathogens, thereby making water safe to drink.
Water contamination signifies the introduction of harmful substances into the water, a critical concern when it comes to waterborne diseases. Pathogens like protozoa, bacteria, and viruses are common culprits, posing health risks to humans upon ingestion of contaminated water. Diseases such as dysentery, cholera, and giardiasis can result from the consumption of water tainted with these pathogens, making waterborne contamination a pressing global health issue. To mitigate these risks, various water treatment measures are employed. Chlorination, involving the addition of chlorine, and the use of ozone are common methods that effectively reduce the presence of pathogens in water, ensuring its safety for consumption. Addressing water contamination is pivotal for safeguarding public health and preventing the spread of waterborne diseases, particularly in regions where access to clean water is a persistent challenge.