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Which chemical is most appropriate to raise the Total Alkalinity in a pool?

  1. Borax

  2. Muriatic Acid

  3. Sodium Bicarbonate

  4. Sodium Carbonate

The correct answer is: Sodium Bicarbonate

Sodium Bicarbonate is the preferred chemical to raise Total Alkalinity in a pool. This is because it is specifically designed to increase alkalinity without significantly affecting the pH level. Borax is not designed for this purpose and can actually increase the pH level too much. Muriatic Acid is actually used to lower Total Alkalinity and can cause a large decrease in pH if used to raise alkalinity. Sodium Carbonate is a strong base and can cause a rapid increase in pH if used to raise Total Alkalinity. Therefore, Sodium Bicarbonate is the most appropriate and safest choice for raising Total Alkalinity in a pool.