What is a common use of ozone in water treatment?

Ozone is commonly used in water treatment primarily due to its strong oxidizing properties, which make it highly effective for disinfection. When ozone is introduced into water, it rapidly reacts with various microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, effectively inactivating them and ensuring that the water is safe for consumption. This disinfection process is often favored because ozone does not leave harmful residues in the water, unlike some chemical disinfectants, and it can also break down other pollutants simultaneously.

The other options, while related to water treatment, do not reflect the primary use of ozone. For instance, balancing pH levels is typically accomplished using acids or bases rather than ozone. Similarly, although ozone can aid in the oxidation of certain heavy metals, its primary role is not in the direct removal of these contaminants. Lastly, while ozone can improve taste and odor under certain circumstances, this is not its main function compared to its superior capability as a disinfectant.