What is the role of chlorine in pool water sterilization?

Chlorine plays a critical role in disinfecting water in swimming pools. It acts as a powerful disinfectant that helps to kill harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens present in the water. As a strong oxidizing agent, chlorine reacts with these microorganisms, effectively rendering them inactive and preventing the spread of waterborne diseases. This is essential for maintaining a safe and hygienic swimming environment. Without adequate disinfection, pools would become breeding grounds for illness, leading to health risks for swimmers.

While chlorine does interact with other chemicals in pool water and can influence overall water quality, its primary function is to ensure that the water is safe for users by eliminating pathogens. Conversely, chlorine does not serve to balance pH levels directly or to add color to the water, which are unrelated functions in terms of water treatment. Balancing pH levels typically requires the addition of other chemicals, and chlorine itself is not designed to provide coloration. The primary and most vital role remains its disinfection properties.