What chemical is commonly used to shock a pool?

Calcium hypochlorite and sodium hypochlorite are commonly used to shock a pool due to their effectiveness in rapidly increasing the chlorine level in the water. Shocking a pool, which means adding a large dose of chlorine, is essential for eliminating contaminants, such as bacteria, algae, and combined chlorine (chloramines) that can develop over time.

Calcium hypochlorite is a granular form that is stable and easy to store, making it a popular choice for pool owners. It provides a strong chlorine concentration, which quickly raises the free chlorine level in the pool, ensuring effective sanitation. Sodium hypochlorite, on the other hand, is a liquid form of chlorine that is easy to apply and dissolves quickly in water, meaning it acts fast to improve water quality.

Both of these chemicals help ensure that the pool water remains safe and hygienic for swimmers, making them reliable options for the shocking process. Other choices, while they have uses in pool maintenance, do not specifically fulfill the function of rapidly increasing chlorine levels to shock the pool as effectively as calcium hypochlorite or sodium hypochlorite.