What is the primary purpose of chlorination in water treatment?

The primary purpose of chlorination in water treatment is to disinfect water and kill harmful microorganisms. Chlorination is a widely used method due to its effectiveness in reducing pathogenic bacteria, viruses, and protozoa present in water that can pose severe health risks to consumers. The process involves adding chlorine or chlorine-based compounds to the water, which then interacts with the microorganisms, effectively inactivating them and ensuring that the water is safe for human consumption.

While other options touch upon aspects related to water treatment, they do not align with the primary goals of chlorination. For example, enhancing the flavor or reducing odor of water are not the main objectives of chlorination, as this process is primarily focused on ensuring microbial safety. Similarly, the removal of heavy metals involves different treatment technologies, such as filtration or chemical precipitation, rather than chlorination, which is specifically designed for disinfection. Thus, the central function of chlorination is its role as a disinfectant to protect public health by eliminating harmful pathogens in the water supply.