What method is commonly used to ensure water quality in a public water system?

Chlorination is a widely used method for ensuring water quality in public water systems. This process involves adding chlorine or chlorine compounds to the water supply to disinfect and kill harmful pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. The effectiveness of chlorination is notable because it not only achieves immediate disinfection but also provides residual protection as the water travels through pipes, helping to maintain water safety until it reaches consumers.

Chlorination is a critical component of water treatment because it helps prevent waterborne diseases that can arise from contaminated water sources. This method has been an essential practice for public health and safety, as it significantly reduces the risk of disease outbreaks.

While other methods, such as filtration and storage, can contribute to water quality, they do not provide the same level of disinfection that chlorination offers. Filtration primarily removes particulate matter and sediments from the water, and storage is largely beneficial for managing supply and pressure but does not inherently sanitize the water. Fluorination, while important for dental health by preventing tooth decay, is not a method of disinfection and therefore does not directly ensure water quality in the same way chlorination does.