During water treatment, what is a common characteristic of water sources that might lead to chlorination?

Chlorination is primarily implemented as a disinfection method during water treatment processes to eliminate harmful microorganisms that can pose health risks. Water sources can be contaminated with bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, which can cause waterborne diseases. Therefore, the presence of harmful contaminants in a water source is a critical factor that drives the need for chlorination. By adding chlorine or chlorine compounds to the water, treatment facilities can effectively reduce or eliminate these pathogens, making the water safe for human consumption.

Other factors, while important in the context of water quality, do not directly necessitate chlorination in the same way. High mineral content may affect the taste and hardness of the water but does not directly correlate with health risks requiring chlorination. Similarly, poor aesthetic quality, such as turbidity or color, may lead to treatment processes but is not primarily linked to the presence of pathogens. Low temperature of the source does not necessarily correlate with the presence of harmful contaminants and might even inhibit some microbial growth. Thus, the primary justification for chlorination is the presence of harmful contaminants.