What is the process called that utilizes chemical agents for disinfection in water treatment?

The process that utilizes chemical agents for disinfection in water treatment is known as chlorination. This method specifically involves the addition of chlorine or chlorine compounds to water to kill or inactivate harmful microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. Chlorination is an essential step in ensuring that drinking water is safe for consumption, as it effectively reduces the risk of waterborne diseases.

Chlorine is favored for its effectiveness, residual disinfection properties (meaning it remains in the water to continue to protect against recontamination), and relative ease of use. Overall, chlorination plays a crucial role in public health and safety by ensuring the microbiological quality of drinking water.

Other processes mentioned, such as filtration, distillation, and sedimentation, serve different purposes in water treatment. Filtration is primarily used to remove suspended solids and particulates, distillation involves boiling water to separate impurities based on different boiling points, and sedimentation allows heavier particles to settle out of the water. While all are important in the water treatment process, none are classified as disinfection utilizing chemical agents in the same manner as chlorination.