Which statement about ozone as a disinfectant is false?

Ozone is an effective disinfectant that has a variety of properties making it beneficial for water treatment and disinfection processes. It is an excellent viricide, meaning it is highly effective against viruses, and it can also contribute to the levels of dissolved oxygen in water. However, the statement that ozone has a long-lasting residual is false.

Ozone is unstable and decomposes quickly, which means it does not remain in treated water for extended periods. This short half-life limits its effectiveness as a residual disinfectant compared to chlorine or other substances that can persist in the water supply. While its rapid action as a disinfectant is a valuable characteristic, it is not suitable for providing ongoing disinfection over time. Therefore, the assertion that ozone has a long-lasting residual does not align with its chemical nature and behavior in aquatic environments.