Which of the following is essential for water purification?

Chlorination is an essential method for water purification because it effectively eliminates a wide range of harmful pathogens and microorganisms. The process involves adding chlorine or chlorine compounds to water, which disrupts the cellular processes of bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens, rendering them inactive or killing them outright. This method is widely used in municipal water treatment systems to ensure that the water supply is safe for consumption and complies with health standards.

While heating and boiling also have their place in purifying water by killing pathogens, they do not address chemical contaminants and may not be practical for large-scale water treatment. Filtration alone can remove some particles and sediments but may not be sufficient to ensure microbial safety unless combined with disinfection methods like chlorination. Therefore, chlorination is a critical component of comprehensive water purification strategies, ensuring safe drinking water.