AFO (Aquatics Facilitator Operator) Glossary 100% accurate!

AFO (Aquatics Facilitator Operator) Glossary 100% accurate! Acid - ANSWER A commonly use chemical compound dosed into swimming pools that releases hydrogen ions in water thereby lowering pH Algae - ANSWER a simple nuisance plant life that colonizes in water under favorable conditions Alkalinity - ANSWER A measure of the pH-buffering capacity of water Aluminum Sulfate - ANSWER Alum; a flocculating agent frequently used as a supplement in rapid sand filters only! Ammonia (NH3) - ANSWER A chemical compound of hydrogen and nitrogen that combines with free chlorine in pools to form chloramines, or combined chlorine. Automation - ANSWER Electronic equipment that senses water variables (primarliy chlorine, ORP, temperature, and pH) and controls chemical feeder or heater systems to maintain desired levels. Backwash - ANSWER The process of cleaning a swimming pool filter by reversing the flow of water through it. Balance - ANSWER In pools, use to refer to a condition of the water that is neither scaling nore aggressive/corrosive. Basic - ANSWER Opposite of acidic, a pH condition above 7. Bleach (NaCIO) - ANSWER Sodium hypochlorite, usually 12% strength, "liquid chlorine" for pool use. Body Coat (Body Feed) - ANSWER Biatomaceous earth contimuously added to filter elements during the course of a filter run to help maintain filter efficacy and extend filter runs. Breakpoint (Chlorination) - ANSWER The point in a rising chlorine residual at which the concentration of available chlorine becomes great enough to oxidize most organiz matter, chloramines, and ammonia compounds in a pool. Chlorine added thereafter will be in the uncombined, or free, state.