Final answer:
The use of chlorination began in 1913 to treat drinking water, significantly reducing the spread of waterborne diseases through the disinfection of water.
Step-by-step explanation:
The use of chlorination to treat drinking water, which began in 1913, reduces the incidence of waterborne diseases. Chlorination is a process where chlorine or chlorine compounds are added to water as disinfectants to eliminate harmful microorganisms and bacteria, preventing waterborne diseases. It's one of the most significant advances in public health, contributing to the safety of drinking water worldwide.
Common Water Treatment Methods
- Filtration: Water is passed through layers of sand, gravel, and charcoal to remove particles.
- Disinfection: Chemicals like chlorine or chloramines are added to kill bacteria and other pathogens.
- Ultraviolet (UV) Irradiation: This method uses UV light to inactivate microorganisms without using chemicals.