What chemical is commonly used to sanitize pool water and kill bacteria?

Sodium hypochlorite is commonly used to sanitize pool water because it is a strong oxidizing agent that effectively kills bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens present in the water. When added to pool water, it dissociates into hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ions, both of which have powerful disinfectant properties. This makes sodium hypochlorite an essential part of maintaining water hygiene in swimming pools.

In contrast, calcium chloride is primarily used for raising the calcium hardness of pool water rather than sanitizing it. Algaecides are designed to specifically target algae growth and are not as effective against bacteria. Stabilizers, like cyanuric acid, protect chlorine from being degraded by sunlight but do not serve a direct role in sanitation. Thus, sodium hypochlorite stands out as the primary choice for effective sanitation in swimming pool maintenance.