A flush toilet is a plumbing fixture used for the disposal of human waste. It operates by using water to carry waste away from the toilet bowl into a sewage system or septic tank. When the user presses the flush handle, a valve opens, allowing water to flow from the tank into the bowl, effectively cleaning it. Flush toilets are commonly found in homes, public restrooms, and commercial buildings. They are designed for convenience and hygiene, helping to maintain cleanliness in living spaces. The invention of the flush toilet has significantly improved sanitation and public health since its development in the late 16th century by Sir John Harington.