What is the impact of temperature on chlorine efficacy in water treatment?

The impact of temperature on chlorine efficacy in water treatment is significant because higher temperatures can lead to a decrease in chlorine's effectiveness as a disinfectant. As temperatures rise, the rate of chemical reactions increases, which can cause chlorine to react more quickly with organic material and other compounds in the water rather than remaining available to inactivate pathogens. This displacement of chlorine's disinfecting action may lead to inadequate treatment.

Additionally, elevated temperatures can promote the growth of microorganisms that may be more resistant to chlorine, further diminishing its efficacy. It is crucial to monitor and adjust chlorine doses considering the water temperature to ensure effective disinfection is maintained. Therefore, understanding how temperature affects chlorine is essential in the water treatment process to prevent potential public health risks associated with inadequate disinfection.