Water is often treated with chlorine to

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) To Kill Germs
Chlorination is a common water treatment method used to disinfect water by killing harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa.

Key Points about Chlorination:

• Purpose:

  • Chlorine acts as a powerful disinfectant that destroys pathogens in water, making it safe for drinking and other uses.
  • It prevents the spread of waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and dysentery.

• Mechanism:

  • Chlorine reacts with water to form hypochlorous acid (HOCl), which is highly effective at breaking down the cell walls of microorganisms, killing them.

• Additional Benefits:

  • Maintains the safety of water in storage or distribution systems by providing a residual disinfecting effect.

Additional Information:

• Chlorine:

  • Symbol: Cl
  • Atomic Number: 17
  • Category: Halogen (Group 17 of the Periodic Table)
  • State at Room Temperature: Gas (Yellow-green in color)

• Key Properties:

  • Highly Reactive: Combines easily with most elements.
  • Toxic: In high concentrations, it can be harmful to humans and animals.
  • Solubility in Water: Dissolves to form hypochlorous acid, a powerful disinfectant.

• Uses:

  • Water Treatment: Disinfects drinking water and swimming pools by killing bacteria and viruses.
  • Industrial Applications: Used in the production of PVC, solvents, and other chemicals.
  • Household Cleaning: Found in bleach and disinfectants.
  • Medical Applications: Used to produce antiseptics and pharmaceuticals.