Chlorination is primarily used for which purpose?

Chlorination is primarily used for purification, particularly in the context of drinking water treatment and wastewater management. The process involves adding chlorine, a powerful disinfectant, to water to eliminate harmful pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. This crucial step ensures that the water is safe for human consumption and reduces the risk of waterborne diseases. Chlorination not only kills existing microorganisms but also helps in maintaining a residual concentration of chlorine in the water distribution system, providing ongoing protection against potential contamination.

The other options relate to different treatment processes. Filtration is a physical process used to remove particulate matter from liquids, while coagulation is a chemical process that involves the addition of substances to bind and settle suspended particles. Scavenging typically refers to the removal of unwanted substances from the environment, which may not directly involve chlorination as a primary method. Understanding these distinctions highlights the specific role chlorination plays in the overall process of water purification.