Which is a common method for chlorine disinfection in water treatment?

Shock chlorination is a common method for chlorine disinfection in water treatment primarily used to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens from a water system. This process involves adding a high concentration of chlorine to water for a short period, which effectively kills a wide range of microorganisms. It is particularly useful for disinfecting water storage tanks and distribution systems, especially after repairs or if contamination is suspected.

During shock chlorination, the chlorine concentration is raised to levels much higher than standard disinfection practices, ensuring that any residual microorganisms are effectively neutralized. This method also allows for a subsequent flush of the system to remove any chlorine residue, making it safe for consumption once the levels return to acceptable limits.

In contrast, boiling water is a thermal disinfection method rather than a chemical one, and UV light, while effective for disinfection, does not rely on chlorine. Sand filtration, on the other hand, is used for physical removal of particles but does not provide chemical disinfection. Thus, shock chlorination remains a critical and widely accepted practice in water treatment for ensuring microbial safety.