Chloramines are characterized as what type of disinfectant?

• A. They are a stronger, shorter-lasting disinfectant.
• B. They are formed when chlorine reacts with ammonia and are longer-lasting, weaker disinfectants.
• C. They are exclusively used for taste and odor removal.
• D. They do not form in treated water.

Answer: (B)

Chloramines form when chlorine reacts with ammonia in water. This reaction creates disinfectants that are weaker than free chlorine but last longer in the distribution system, providing a steady residual as water moves through pipes. This combination—formed from chlorine and ammonia and offering a long-lasting but less aggressive disinfection—explains why they are described this way. They’re not used solely for taste and odor removal, and they do form in treated water, so the other statements don’t fit.