What is the primary purpose of using chlorine in water treatment?

The primary purpose of using chlorine in water treatment is to disinfect and kill pathogens. Chlorine is a powerful oxidizing agent that effectively destroys bacteria, viruses, and protozoan cysts that can cause waterborne diseases. By introducing chlorine into the water supply, treatment facilities ensure that harmful microorganisms are eradicated, significantly reducing the risk of illness among consumers.

Chlorine works by penetrating the cell walls of pathogens, disrupting their metabolic processes, and ultimately leading to their death. This disinfection process is critical in providing safe drinking water and is a standard practice in water treatment facilities worldwide.

While improving taste, increasing pH, and removing heavy metals are also considerations in water treatment, these actions do not primarily pertain to the introduction of chlorine. In fact, chlorine can sometimes impart a taste to water, and managing pH or removing heavy metals typically involves different chemicals and processes. Understanding the main function of chlorine as a disinfectant highlights its vital role in public health and safety.