Water harnessed for consumption is treated with _________ to kill any viruses or bacteria that may be present in the water

Water harnessed for consumption is treated with chlorine to kill any viruses or bacteria that may be present in the water. Chlorination is one of the most common water treatment methods used in municipal water systems. It involves adding chlorine or chlorine compounds to water, which effectively eliminates harmful microorganisms.

The process works by chlorinating the water, where chlorine reacts with the cell walls of bacteria and viruses, destructing their cellular integrity, and ultimately leading to their inactivation. In addition to chlorine, other disinfectants like ozone and ultraviolet (UV) light might also be utilized depending on the specific water treatment system and regional regulations.

Ensuring the safety of drinking water is vital for public health, as the consumption of contaminated water can lead to serious health issues, including gastrointestinal diseases and other illnesses.