Question

Water is often treated with chlorine to (a) kill germs (b) remove hardness (c) increase oxygen content (d) remove suspended particles

Short answer

Chlorine is used to kill germs in water.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Purpose of Chlorine in Water Treatment

Chlorine is commonly added to water as a disinfectant. Its primary role is to kill harmful germs and bacteria present in the water supply, ensuring that it is safe for human consumption.

Analyze Each Option Provided

Examine each option given in the context of chlorine's role: - (a) Kill germs: This aligns with chlorine's primary function as a disinfectant. - (b) Remove hardness: This involves removing calcium and magnesium; chlorine does not serve this purpose. - (c) Increase oxygen content: Chlorine is not used to increase oxygen levels in water. - (d) Remove suspended particles: This is typically done through filtration, not chlorination.

Verify with Chlorine's Properties

Chlorine is well-known for its antimicrobial properties. It reacts with water to form hypochlorous acid, which effectively kills microorganisms.

Select the Correct Answer

Based on the analysis, the purpose that matches chlorine's use in water treatment is option (a): to kill germs.

Key concepts

Chlorine Disinfection

Chlorine disinfection is a pivotal process in water treatment, mainly used to eradicate harmful microorganisms present in the water. When chlorine is added to water, it reacts to form hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ions. These compounds are highly effective in eliminating bacteria and viruses.

Benefits of Chlorine Disinfection:

• Cost-effective: It's one of the most economical ways to disinfect water.
• Efficient: Quickly reduces microbial content to safe levels.
• Residual effect: Leaves a lasting disinfection effect, preventing regrowth of organisms.

While it is highly effective, it's also important to balance the amount used. Excessive chlorine can lead to an unpleasant taste or smell and may cause health concerns. However, when used properly, it is instrumental in ensuring safe drinking water for communities.

Microbial Safety

Microbial safety refers to the prevention of waterborne diseases through the control of potentially harmful microbes. The presence of pathogenic microorganisms in drinking water poses a significant health risk. These can include bacteria like E. coli, viruses, and protozoa. Approaches to Achieve Microbial Safety:

• Disinfection: The use of chemicals such as chlorine to kill pathogens.
• Filtration: Physical removal of microbes through filters.
• Regular Testing: Monitoring water quality to ensure continued safety.

Ensuring microbial safety reduces outbreaks and health risks associated with drinking water. It is a critical component of water treatment strategies to protect public health.

Water Quality

Water quality is a broad term that encompasses the chemical, physical, and biological characteristics of water. Good water quality is essential for human health and ecosystem sustainability. Key Parameters of Water Quality:

• pH Level: Measures acidity or alkalinity; ideal drinking water is neutral.
• Turbidity: Clarity of water, important for assessing potential contamination.
• Contaminant Levels: Includes checking for chemicals like lead or microbial contamination.

Maintaining high water quality is essential for supporting life and minimizing risks associated with environmental pollutants. Regular assessment and remediation are necessary to ensure water meets health and safety standards.

Drinking Water Safety

Drinking water safety is the assurance that water is free from contaminants and safe for human consumption. It involves rigorous treatment processes and regulatory standards to protect public health. Measures to Ensure Drinking Water Safety:

• Treatment Processes: Include filtration, settling, and disinfection.
• Regulations: Government guidelines set limits on contaminants.
• Public Awareness: Educating the population about water quality issues.

Ensuring that drinking water safety is maintained requires ongoing efforts from both water authorities and the public. This includes monitoring, stringent compliance with standards, and adopting best practices in water treatment.