Chloramines are formed by the addition of which two substances?

Chloramines are formed through a specific chemical reaction involving chlorine and ammonia. When chlorine is added to water that contains ammonia, it reacts with the ammonia to create chloramines. This process is significant in water treatment, particularly in systems where chlorination is used as a disinfection method.

Chloramines serve as a secondary disinfectant in the distribution system, providing a longer-lasting effect than chlorine alone, particularly because they are more stable and less reactive in the presence of organic materials. Therefore, using chloramines can help maintain water quality over extended periods.

Understanding the basic chemistry behind chloramine formation is crucial for water operators, as it directly relates to disinfection practices and the management of water quality standards.