What major sanitary problem did Alexander Cumming solve with his 1775 S-trap patent?
Answer
Preventing noxious sewer gases from entering homes
The S-trap, patented by Scottish inventor Alexander Cumming in 1775, represented a breakthrough in domestic comfort and hygiene. Before this, the primary deterrent to indoor flushing toilets was the foul stench of sewer gases rising back through the pipes into the home. By creating a downward bend in the drain pipe that consistently held a small amount of water, the S-trap created a permanent liquid seal. This physical barrier effectively trapped and blocked noxious gases, making indoor, water-based waste removal practical and livable.
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