Florida Wastewater Practice Test

What chemical is used to identify a chlorine leak?

1. Chlorine dioxide

2. Krypton

3. Ammonia

4. Hydrogen peroxide

The correct answer is: Ammonia

Ammonia is the chemical used to identify a chlorine leak because it reacts with chlorine to produce a noticeable reaction that can be observed. When ammonia comes into contact with chlorine gas, it forms chloramines, which may manifest as a color change or a distinct smell. This property makes ammonia useful in leak detection, enabling operators to identify potential hazards quickly and ensure safety in wastewater treatment facilities. Other chemicals listed, such as chlorine dioxide, krypton, and hydrogen peroxide, do not serve the same function in detecting chlorine leaks. Chlorine dioxide is itself a chlorinated compound that does not help in detecting chlorine gas. Krypton is a noble gas and does not react with chlorine or indicate its presence. Hydrogen peroxide is an oxidizer and does not aid in identifying chlorine leaks.