Ultraviolet (UV) disinfection works by using short-wavelength ultraviolet light to kill or inactivate microorganisms by destroying their DNA. UV light with wavelengths between 200-280 nanometers is specially focused on destroying the ability of organisms such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa to multiply and cause disease. When UV light hits the DNA of these microbes, it causes damage to their genetic material, rendering them unable to multiply or cause infections. The effectiveness of UV disinfection depends on factors such as the wavelength of UV used, dose received, and the organism being targeted.