What process involves adding chlorine to water?

Chlorination is the process that involves adding chlorine to water primarily for the purpose of disinfection. This method is widely used to eliminate harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses, that can contaminate water supplies. The addition of chlorine to water creates a chlorine residual, which helps ensure that any remaining pathogens are neutralized as the water is distributed through the system. This practice is essential in safeguarding public health by preventing waterborne diseases.

Conversely, preliminary filtration focuses on removing large particles from water, while membrane separation involves using physical barriers to separate substances in water. Boiling is a method of disinfection as well but does not involve the addition of chlorine and is typically used for small quantities of water. Therefore, chlorination is specifically the correct term for the process of adding chlorine to water for disinfection purposes.