What is one common chemical treatment used for water disinfection?

Chlorine is one of the most widely used chemicals for water disinfection. Its effectiveness in killing a broad spectrum of pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, makes it a staple in water treatment processes. Chlorine works by disrupting the cellular processes of microorganisms, ultimately leading to their death. It can be applied in various forms, such as chlorine gas, sodium hypochlorite, or calcium hypochlorite, allowing for flexibility depending on the specific requirements of a water treatment facility.

In addition to its disinfection capabilities, chlorine is also capable of providing residual disinfection. This means that it remains in the water system long enough to continue killing any pathogens that may enter the water after treatment. This residual effect is crucial for maintaining ongoing water quality as the water travels through distribution systems.

Other substances listed, such as fluoride, are primarily used for dental health rather than disinfection. Ozone is a powerful disinfectant, but it is less commonly used in routine water treatment because it requires specialized equipment and does not provide a residual effect like chlorine does. Activated carbon is effective for removing organic compounds and improving taste and odor but does not disinfect water. Therefore, chlorine stands out as the common chemical treatment specifically designed for disinfection in water treatment processes.