Water Nuggets Practice Exam

What is the chemical form of hypochlorous acid relevant to disinfection processes?

1. Cl2

2. NaCl

3. HOCl

4. HCl

The correct answer is: HOCl

Hypochlorous acid, represented chemically as HOCl, is a weak acid that is crucial for disinfection processes. Its significance lies in its ability to act as a powerful oxidizing agent, which allows it to effectively kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. The presence of the hydroxyl group (–OH) and the chlorine atom (Cl) in the molecule facilitates this antimicrobial activity. The unique structure of HOCl allows it to penetrate the cell walls of microorganisms, leading to the disruption of vital cellular functions and ultimately resulting in cell death. This characteristic makes hypochlorous acid particularly valuable in various applications, including water treatment, sanitation, and wound care. In contrast, the other options represent different chemical substances that do not function as hypochlorous acid. Cl2 is chlorine gas used primarily for water treatment but does not serve the same function as HOCl in disinfection. NaCl, or table salt, involves sodium and chlorine ions, which are not directly involved in disinfection like hypochlorous acid. HCl, or hydrochloric acid, is a strong acid that is effective in certain applications but does not provide the same antimicrobial properties as HOCl. Thus, knowing that HOCl is essential for disinfection