What is the name of the process by which chlorine eliminates bacteria in water treatment?

The process by which chlorine eliminates bacteria in water treatment is known as oxidation. Chlorine acts as a powerful oxidizing agent when introduced to water. This means that it reacts chemically with various substances, including the organic compounds present in microorganisms like bacteria.

When chlorine is added to water, it attacks the cell walls of bacteria, leading to the disruption of their metabolic processes and ultimately causing their death. This method is fundamental in disinfection practices, ensuring that water is safe for consumption by effectively reducing or eliminating harmful pathogens.

Other processes like reduction, filtration, and precipitation serve different purposes in water treatment. Reduction involves gaining electrons in chemical reactions, primarily affecting substances rather than disinfecting. Filtration physically removes particles from water but does not actively kill bacteria, and precipitation relates to the settling of particulate matter rather than disinfection. Therefore, oxidation accurately describes the role that chlorine plays in eliminating bacteria during water treatment.