What chemical is commonly used for disinfection in water treatment?

What chemical is commonly used for disinfection in water treatment?

• A. Fluoride
• B. Chlorine
• C. Sodium bicarbonate
• D. Calcium carbonate

Answer: (B)

Chlorine is commonly used for disinfection in water treatment due to its effectiveness in killing bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that can contaminate drinking water. Chlorine works by oxidizing the cell walls of microbial organisms, which ultimately leads to their inactivation. Its ability to provide a residual disinfectant effect in the distribution system is another significant advantage, ensuring that any potential contaminants are dealt with before they reach consumers. In comparison, fluoride is primarily added for dental health benefits and does not serve the purpose of disinfection. Sodium bicarbonate and calcium carbonate are used mainly for pH adjustment and hardness control, respectively, rather than for sanitizing or disinfection purposes in water treatment processes. Therefore, chlorine is the chemical of choice for effective disinfection in water treatment systems.

Chlorine is commonly used for disinfection in water treatment due to its effectiveness in killing bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that can contaminate drinking water. Chlorine works by oxidizing the cell walls of microbial organisms, which ultimately leads to their inactivation. Its ability to provide a residual disinfectant effect in the distribution system is another significant advantage, ensuring that any potential contaminants are dealt with before they reach consumers.

In comparison, fluoride is primarily added for dental health benefits and does not serve the purpose of disinfection. Sodium bicarbonate and calcium carbonate are used mainly for pH adjustment and hardness control, respectively, rather than for sanitizing or disinfection purposes in water treatment processes. Therefore, chlorine is the chemical of choice for effective disinfection in water treatment systems.