What is not commonly used to disinfect water?

Silver nitrate is not commonly used to disinfect water primarily due to its limitations compared to other disinfectants. While silver ions do possess some antimicrobial properties and can inhibit bacterial growth, their effectiveness as a standalone disinfectant is relatively low and is generally insufficient for ensuring the safety of drinking water on a large scale. Moreover, silver can lead to the formation of precipitates or affect the taste and color of water, making it less desirable for routine disinfection purposes.

In contrast, chlorine is widely utilized in water treatment processes due to its effectiveness in killing a broad spectrum of pathogens and providing residual protection against future contamination. Ultraviolet light is another effective method for disinfection, using radiation to inactivate microorganisms without adding chemicals to the water. Similarly, ozone treatment is recognized for its strong oxidizing properties, making it effective in removing contaminants and pathogens from water.

Given these considerations, silver nitrate's limited application and effectiveness in comparison to other well-established disinfection methods clarify why it is not commonly used for this purpose.