Which chemical is primarily used for disinfection in water treatments?

Sodium hypochlorite is primarily used for disinfection in water treatment due to its effectiveness in killing bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens present in water supplies. It is a powerful oxidizing agent, making it ideal for ensuring that the water is safe for human consumption and other uses. Sodium hypochlorite is convenient to handle and can be easily dosed into water systems, allowing for effective treatment and residual maintenance to continue disinfecting the water as it travels through the distribution system.

While chlorine dioxide and ozone are also utilized for disinfection in some water treatment facilities, sodium hypochlorite remains the most widely used disinfectant due to its extensive application in various water treatment plants. In contrast, calcium carbonate is typically utilized for water softening and pH adjustment rather than disinfection. Understanding the role of sodium hypochlorite in water treatment helps in recognizing the importance of chemical disinfection in maintaining public health and water safety standards.