What chemical is produced as a result of free chlorine interacting with water?

When free chlorine interacts with water, it primarily forms hydrochlorous acid. The reaction occurs when chlorine gas is dissolved in water, resulting in the formation of this weak acid, which plays a crucial role in disinfection processes. Hydrochlorous acid is effective in killing bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens present in water, making it a vital component in water treatment systems.

Other options like ozone and chlorine dioxide are not direct products of the reaction between free chlorine and water. Ozone is typically generated separately by electrical discharges or ultraviolet light. Chlorine dioxide is produced through a different chemical reaction involving sodium chlorite and an acid. Hydrochlorite, while related, is not directly derived from the interaction of chlorine with water in this context; instead, it is often associated with bleach solutions. Thus, the formation of hydrochlorous acid is the correct and primary outcome of free chlorine reacting with water.