Which chemical is commonly added to pool water to control algae growth?

Algaecide is specifically formulated to inhibit the growth of algae in pool water, making it the most effective choice for controlling algae proliferation. This type of chemical targets various forms of algae and works by disrupting their cellular processes, thus preventing them from multiplying. When added to pool water, algaecides can provide a preventive measure against algae blooms, which are not only unsightly but can also create unsafe swimming conditions by making surfaces slippery.

In contrast, while chlorine is primarily used for sanitizing pool water by killing bacteria and pathogens, it does have some ability to manage algae as well. However, its main function is not as a dedicated algaecide, so it may not be sufficient on its own for heavy algae infestations. Calcium chloride is typically used for increasing calcium hardness in water and sodium bicarbonate is used to raise alkalinity; neither of these serve the primary purpose of preventing or controlling algae.