Chlorine combined with ammonia forms what?

Chlorine combined with ammonia primarily forms chloramines, which are a group of chemical compounds. When chlorine, typically in the form of sodium hypochlorite or chlorine gas, reacts with ammonia, it produces chloramine, a compound that can effectively serve as a disinfectant in water treatment processes. This reaction is significant because chloramines are generally more stable than free chlorine and are less likely to form certain harmful byproducts. Their use is essential in wastewater treatment, as they help in the control of pathogens while minimizing the formation of trihalomethanes, which are undesirable byproducts formed when chlorine reacts with organic matter in water.

In summary, chloramines play a critical role in maintaining water quality during the treatment process, particularly in systems where prolonged disinfection is needed.