Florida Wastewater Practice Test

Chlorine combined with ammonia forms which of the following?

1. Chloramines

2. Chlorophyll

3. Chloroform

4. Nitrates

The correct answer is: Chloramines

Chlorine combined with ammonia specifically results in the formation of chloramines. This process occurs when chlorine, which is commonly used as a disinfectant in water treatment, reacts with ammonia present in treated water. Chloramines are a group of chemical compounds that serve as a secondary disinfectant in water treatment. They are less potent than free chlorine but have the advantage of providing a longer-lasting residual effect in the distribution system. This helps to maintain disinfection throughout the delivery of water to consumers. In contrast, the other options represent different compounds. Chlorophyll is related to photosynthesis in plants and has no connection to the reaction between chlorine and ammonia. Chloroform is a byproduct formed under certain conditions when chlorine reacts with organic matter, not directly with ammonia. Nitrates are common nitrogen compounds that can be formed from various biological processes but are not produced directly from the reaction of chlorine and ammonia. Understanding these distinctions is essential for effectively managing water treatment processes and ensuring public health safety.