Step 1: Understand Bleaching Powder.
Bleaching powder, also known as calcium hypochlorite ( ), is a strong oxidizing agent. When added to drinking water, it serves two primary purposes: 1. To Kill Germs:
Bleaching powder acts as a disinfectant, killing bacteria and other microorganisms present in the water. This ensures that the water is safe for consumption by eliminating harmful pathogens. 2. As an Oxidizing Agent:
The oxidizing properties of bleaching powder help break down organic matter and contaminants in the water, improving its purity and safety. Step 2: Analyze Each Option.
Option (1): To kill the germs — Partially correct, as bleaching powder does kill germs, but it has another function.
Option (2): As an oxidizing agent — Partially correct, as bleaching powder is indeed an oxidizing agent, but it has another function.
Option (3): '1' \& '2' — Correct, as bleaching powder serves both functions: killing germs and acting as an oxidizing agent.
Option (4): None of these — Incorrect, as options (1) and (2) are valid reasons.
Step 3: Final Answer. $ $