Tag

Chlorine

All articles tagged with #chlorine

Volcanic Plume Reveals Chlorine-Driven Methane Cleanup in the Atmosphere
science14 days ago

Volcanic Plume Reveals Chlorine-Driven Methane Cleanup in the Atmosphere

Researchers analyzing the 2022 Hunga Tonga eruption found unusually high formaldehyde in the plume, indicating methane was being rapidly destroyed by chlorine radicals formed in sunlight-activated reactions. The study demonstrates a natural methane-removal pathway in volcanic plumes and quantifies about 900 metric tons per day of methane destroyed—far less than the eruption’s total methane output—while suggesting chlorine-mediated methane destruction could inform future atmospheric cleanup research, though practical application remains uncertain.

Volcanic plume may act as a methane cleaner, study finds
science15 days ago

Volcanic plume may act as a methane cleaner, study finds

A 2022 eruption of the Hunga Tonga–Hunga Ha’apai volcano released about 330 gigagrams of methane but simultaneously destroyed roughly 900 megagrams per day through chlorine-driven reactions in the plume, with methane breakdown detectable for about 10 days as the cloud drifted toward South America. The findings suggest a natural mechanism that could inspire engineered methane-removal approaches, though practical deployment and safety concerns, plus measurement challenges, remain.

Are Public Pools Truly Clean? An Expert Explores Hidden Germs and Risks
health10 months ago

Are Public Pools Truly Clean? An Expert Explores Hidden Germs and Risks

Public pools can harbor germs like Cryptosporidium and Pseudomonas, but proper hygiene and precautions such as showering before and after swimming, avoiding swimming when sick, and not swallowing pool water can significantly reduce health risks. Chlorine kills many pathogens but doesn't eliminate all, and strong chlorine smells may indicate contamination. Following safety tips helps enjoy swimming while minimizing infection risks.

Experts Warn About Germs and Pee in Public Pools
health10 months ago

Experts Warn About Germs and Pee in Public Pools

Public pools can harbor germs like Cryptosporidium and Pseudomonas, which chlorine may not fully eliminate, especially if the water is contaminated or if swimmers don't follow hygiene practices. To reduce risks, shower before and after swimming, avoid swimming when sick or with open wounds, and practice good hygiene. A strong chlorine smell often indicates contamination rather than cleanliness.

"Health Alert: Avoid Swimming in Pools with Strong Chlorine Odor"
health2 years ago

"Health Alert: Avoid Swimming in Pools with Strong Chlorine Odor"

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that the "chlorine smell" and red eyes experienced in pools are not caused by pool chemicals, but rather by the combination of chlorine with contaminants such as urine, feces, sweat, and makeup brought in by swimmers. A CDC study found that 58% of public pool samples tested positive for E. coli. These contaminants can form chloramines, which can cause skin and nasal irritation, coughing, asthma attacks, and wheezing. Persistent germs like cryptosporidium can survive in pool water, making it the leading cause of pool-related outbreaks. The CDC recommends checking inspection records, testing pH and chlorine levels, ensuring clear visibility in the pool, and checking for secure drain covers and safety equipment to stay safe at public pools.

"Chlorine" Smell in Pool Signals Danger, Experts Warn
health3 years ago

"Chlorine" Smell in Pool Signals Danger, Experts Warn

The smell of "chlorine" in a swimming pool is not actually chlorine, but rather chloramines, which are produced when chlorine reacts with ammonia from sweat, body oils, and urine. The stronger the smell, the less free chlorine there is in the pool, meaning it's time to add more chlorine to disinfect it. It's advised to stay out of the water when a strong chemical smell is present, as it can lead to various infections. A team of chemists estimated that in a typical commercial-size pool, about 20 gallons of pee is present, while a typical home pool has around 2 gallons of pee.