In water treatment, what is the primary purpose of using chlorine?

The primary purpose of using chlorine in water treatment is to disinfect and kill pathogens. Chlorine is a powerful oxidizing agent that effectively targets bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms found in water, making it an essential chemical in ensuring that drinking water is safe for human consumption. By introducing chlorine into the water, treatment facilities can significantly reduce the risk of waterborne diseases, providing a key barrier against potential health threats.

While enhancing taste, reducing hardness, and removing color are important aspects of water treatment, they are not the main function of chlorine. The enhancement of taste in water is typically achieved through different treatment methods or by adjusting mineral content. Hardness, primarily caused by calcium and magnesium ions, is usually addressed through processes like ion exchange or reverse osmosis, not with chlorine. Similarly, the removal of color in water often involves filtration or chemical treatment specific to the substances causing discoloration, rather than the use of chlorine.