Question detail
How does chlorine act as a disinfectant in water treatment?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Group 7(17), the halogens
Question
- A. By increasing the water temperature
- B. By forming a protective layer on water molecules
- C. By oxidizing and breaking down organic materials
- D. By changing the water's chemical composition
Answer
By oxidizing and breaking down organic materials
Explanation
Chlorine acts as a disinfectant by oxidizing organic materials and killing pathogens, which helps to purify the water and make it safe for drinking.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Chlorine's Role
Students often confuse the role of chlorine in water treatment as solely a disinfectant, neglecting its role in oxidation and the formation of chlorinated compounds.
Chlorine acts as a strong oxidizing agent in water treatment. When chlorine is added to water, it reacts to form hypochlorous acid (HOCl), which kills bacteria and other pathogens. The reaction can be summarized as: Cl2 + H2O ⇌ HOCl + HCl. This shows that chlorine not only disinfects but also contributes to the formation of chlorinated by-products.
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