What is the key role of chlorine in water treatment?

Chlorine plays a crucial role in water treatment primarily because of its effectiveness in eliminating microbial pathogens. This capability is fundamental to ensuring that drinking water is safe and meets public health standards. Chlorine is a powerful disinfectant that can kill or inactivate a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, which may be present in water sources. By effectively reducing the levels of these harmful pathogens, chlorine helps prevent waterborne diseases and makes the water safe for consumption.

While improving taste, adding minerals, and reducing hardness may be important aspects of water treatment, they do not primarily characterize the role of chlorine. Chlorine's strong oxidative properties and its ability to form long-lasting disinfectant residuals make it a standard approach in water treatment processes globally. Its ability to provide ongoing protection against potential recontamination in distribution systems adds to its significance in safeguarding public health.