Why is chlorine added to water?

Options

A. To store water for long periods
B. To make water odourless
C. To make water colorless
D. To kill germs in water

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Purpose of Chlorine**: Chlorine is a chemical element that is commonly used in water treatment processes. Its primary purpose is to disinfect water and make it safe for human consumption.

2. **Identifying Harmful Microbes**: Water can contain various harmful microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, which can cause diseases. It is essential to eliminate these germs to ensure the water is safe to drink.

3. **Chlorination Process**: Chlorine is added to water through various methods, such as chlorine tablets or chlorine-releasing compounds like bleaching powder. This process is known as chlorination.

4. **Application in Water Supply**: Chlorination is widely used in municipal water supplies and swimming pools to maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of waterborne diseases.

5. **Conclusion**: The main reason chlorine is added to water is to kill germs and harmful microbes, making the water safe for consumption. Therefore, the correct answer is option D: "To kill germs in water."

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