Residual chlorine is detected by –
The core concept here is the chemical analysis of residual chlorine in water. Common methods include the DPD (N,N-Diethyl-p-phenylenediamine) method, which is a standard procedure. DPD reacts with chlorine to form a colored compound that can be measured colorimetrically. Another method might be using orthotolidine, but I think DPD is more specific and sensitive.
Now, the correct answer is likely DPD. The DPD method works by reacting with free and total chlorine. The reaction produces a pink color, and the intensity is proportional to the chlorine concentration. This is a standard method in water testing, so the correct answer would be the option that mentions DPD.
For the wrong options, if they include things like iodometry or other reagents, they might not be as specific. Iodometry can measure chlorine but is less commonly used for residual chlorine. Orthotolidine is another reagent, but it's less specific because it can react with other oxidants. Maybe another option could be a wrong method like a pH indicator, which doesn't measure chlorine.
The clinical pearl here is that DPD is the gold standard for residual chlorine detection due to its specificity and ease of use in field tests. Students should remember that DPD is key here. Also, knowing the difference between free and combined chlorine is important, as DPD can distinguish between them when used in different forms.
Putting it all together, I need to structure the explanation with the core concept, why DPD is correct, why other options are wrong, and the high-yield fact. Make sure the answer is concise and fits within the character limit.
**Core Concept**
Residual chlorine detection in water involves chemical assays that quantify chlorine species (free or total) using colorimetric or titrimetric methods. **DPD (N,N-Diethyl-p-phenylenediamine)** is the gold standard reagent, forming a pink chromogen proportional to chlorine concentration.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
DPD reacts specifically with free chlorine (hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ions) to produce a pink-colored compound measurable via spectrophotometry. For total chlorine, iodide is added to convert combined chlorine (e.g., chloramines) to free chlorine before DPD reaction. This method is widely standardized due to its sensitivity and specificity.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Iodometric titration measures chlorine but is less precise and prone to interference from other oxidants.
**Option B:** Orthotolidine reacts with chlorine to form a yellow color but lacks specificity for residual chlorine and is outdated.
**Option C:** Silver nitrate titration is used for chloride ions, not residual chlorine.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
DPD-based methods are mandated by EPA and WHO for drinking water testing. Remember: **DPD distinguishes free vs. total chlorine**, while orthotolid