Silver has proved an effective way to reduce the numbers of total bacteria because it:

Silver is known for its antimicrobial properties, which are primarily attributed to its ability to inactivate a wide range of microorganisms upon contact. It disrupts cellular processes in bacteria, leading to cell death or inhibition of growth. This mechanism allows silver to reduce bacterial counts effectively without the need for extreme concentrations, making it a practical choice for water treatment.

The other options do not accurately reflect the role of silver in water treatment. While complete sterilization and neutralization of chemical contaminants are important processes in water treatment, they do not specifically apply to how silver functions. Similarly, enhancing taste and smell is not a primary characteristic associated with silver's use; its application focuses on reducing microbial presence rather than improving sensory qualities of water.