Water Nuggets Practice Exam

Chlorine is widely used for disinfecting drinking water due to its effectiveness in killing bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms. It has been a standard method for water treatment since the early 20th century because it is not only effective but also relatively inexpensive and readily available. When chlorine is added to water, it forms chloramines, which provide residual protection against pathogens even after treatment, making it a reliable choice for maintaining water quality in distribution systems.

Chlorine's strong oxidizing properties make it capable of inactivating a wide range of pathogens, ensuring that drinking water is safe for human consumption. Furthermore, regulatory agencies often recommend chlorine methods because they are backed by extensive research and practice, demonstrating efficacy in various water conditions.

While other chemicals have disinfection capabilities, chlorine's established track record, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness solidify its position as the primary chemical choice for water disinfection on a global scale.