Dive into the 2025 NY Wastewater Exam – Flush Away the Competition with Confidence!

In wastewater treatment, chlorine is primarily effective as a disinfectant, which is why the chosen answer is correct. Chlorine works by killing pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, that could pose a risk to public health if the treated water is released into the environment or reused. This disinfection process is crucial as it ensures that the treated water meets safety standards and reduces the likelihood of waterborne diseases.

The effectiveness of chlorine in achieving disinfection lies in its ability to penetrate microbial cells and disrupt vital cellular processes, leading to cell death. Additionally, chlorine can form chloramines when combined with ammonia, which can offer longer-lasting disinfection effects, although they are less potent than free chlorine.

Understanding this role is critical in the context of wastewater treatment processes because effective disinfection is essential for protecting both public health and the environment.