What is one advantage of using chlorine for water disinfection?

Using chlorine for water disinfection offers the significant advantage of providing long-term residual protection. This means that after chlorine is added to the water, it continues to disinfect as the water moves through the distribution system, helping to prevent recontamination. This residual effect is crucial for maintaining water quality in large systems where the water may take time to reach the end users.

The ongoing presence of chlorine in the water ensures that any microorganisms are continuously kept at bay, reducing the chances of waterborne illnesses. This characteristic sets chlorine apart from some other disinfection methods, which may not offer a lasting residual effect throughout the entire water distribution system.