Yes, sunlight can remove chlorine from water. Sunlight, specifically ultraviolet (UV) radiation, can break down chlorine molecules, reducing the amount of chlorine in the water. This process is known as “photolysis”. The rate of photolysis increases with the intensity of the UV radiation, which is why chlorine levels in a pool can decrease more quickly on sunny days.
The rate of photolysis also depends on the pH level of the water. The higher the pH level, the less effective chlorine is, and the more quickly it will break down. This is why it’s important to maintain the appropriate pH level in a pool, between 7.2-7.8, to ensure that chlorine is working efficiently.
It is important to note that the amount of chlorine loss is not only due to the sun, but also to the temperature, the number of swimmers, and the level of contaminants in the water. Therefore, it’s important to regularly test and adjust the chlorine levels in a pool, especially on sunny days, to ensure that the water remains safe to swim in.