The Role of Chlorine and pH in Disinfection
Chlorine is a powerful disinfectant widely used in drinking water treatment systems to ensure safe water for consumption. It works by killing bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms present in the water.
The key to its effectiveness is free chlorine. This reactive form of chlorine attacks and destroys germs. It does this through a chemical process called oxidation.
When chlorine is added to water, it creates chlorine-based disinfectants. These include hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and hypochlorite ions (OCl⁻). These compounds disrupt the cell walls of microorganisms, denature proteins, and damage DNA, effectively neutralizing harmful contaminants. However, for this process to work effectively, maintaining proper chlorine concentration and monitoring pH levels is crucial.
The relationship between chlorine and pH is important. This is because pH affects the balance of hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ions in water.
At a neutral pH of about 7, there is more hypochlorous acid. This acid is 80 to 100 times better at killing germs than hypochlorite ions. If the pH gets too high, free chlorine works less well.
This is why it is important to keep proper chlorine levels and adjust pH. Doing this helps ensure the best disinfection.
