Which acids are formed when chlorine reacts with water?

When chlorine reacts with water, it primarily forms hypochlorous acid and hydrochloric acid. The reaction can be represented by the equation:

[ \text{Cl}_2 + \text{H}_2\text{O} \rightleftharpoons \text{HOCl} + \text{HCl} ]

In this process, the chlorine (Cl₂) dissolves in water, resulting in the formation of hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and hydrochloric acid (HCl). Hypochlorous acid is a weak acid and is known for its effective disinfecting properties, while hydrochloric acid is a strong acid that contributes to the acidity of the solution.

Understanding the specific acids produced in this reaction is crucial for water treatment operations, as they play significant roles in disinfection processes and affect the overall chemistry of the water being treated. In contrast, the other options provided include acids that are not formed in this particular reaction, making them incorrect in this context. For instance, sulfuric and nitric acids are related to different chemical processes, as are formic and acetic acids, which pertain to organic compounds rather than halogen reactions with water.