How does chlorine disinfection effectiveness change with lower turbidity?

The effectiveness of chlorine disinfection increases with lower turbidity because turbidity, which refers to the cloudiness or haziness in water caused by suspended solids, can shield microorganisms from the disinfectant. When turbidity is high, these particles can protect bacteria and other pathogens from direct exposure to chlorine, decreasing its ability to effectively kill or inactivate them.

As turbidity decreases, there are fewer suspended particles in the water, allowing chlorine to come into direct contact with a higher proportion of the microorganisms. This greater exposure enhances the disinfectant's efficacy, making chlorine more effective at reducing microbial populations. Consequently, addressing turbidity is essential in water treatment processes to ensure optimal disinfection and improve water quality.