Which of the following sanitizers is associated with a chemical formula HOCl?

The sanitizer associated with the chemical formula HOCl is chlorine. When chlorine is added to water, it forms hypochlorous acid (HOCl), which is a potent sanitizer used for disinfecting pool water. HOCl is effective at killing bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms, making it an essential component of pool sanitation. This form of chlorine is particularly valued because it operates well at a wide range of pH levels, maintaining effectiveness in keeping pool water safe and clean.

Other options, such as bromine, ozone, and algaecide, are different types of sanitizing agents with distinct chemical compositions and mechanisms of action. While they also play important roles in pool maintenance, they do not share the same chemical structure as HOCl. Bromine, for example, is a different halogen and has different effectiveness and properties compared to chlorine. Ozone is a powerful oxidizer but works through a distinct oxidation process rather than the chlorination pathway. Algaecide specifically targets algae and is not primarily classified as a general sanitizer like chlorine is. Understanding the properties of these chemical sanitizers helps pool operators maintain optimal water quality and safety for swimmers.