Chlorine and Chloramine are what in water treatment?

• A. They are disinfectants that may form disinfection byproducts leading to cancer
• B. They are nutrients for beneficial bacteria
• C. They are flavors for water
• D. They are only used for taste and odor removal

Answer: (A)

Chlorine and chloramine serve as disinfectants in water treatment, used to inactivate harmful microorganisms and provide a protective residual in the distribution system. When they react with natural organic matter and other substances in the water, they can form disinfection byproducts. Some of these byproducts have been linked to cancer risk in studies, which is why regulatory standards limit both disinfectant levels and DBP formation. They are not nutrients for beneficial bacteria, not primarily flavors, and not used only for taste and odor removal.