Why is moisture a concern when handling chlorine?

Moisture is a concern when handling chlorine primarily because it can lead to the formation of hazardous compounds. When chlorine comes into contact with water, it can react to form hydrochloric acid and hypochlorous acid. These reactions can create toxic gases that pose health risks to individuals and may contribute to environmental hazards. Therefore, it is crucial to handle chlorine in a dry environment to prevent these reactions and ensure the safety of personnel and the integrity of the operation.

In contrast, other options do not accurately describe the effects of moisture on chlorine. For example, moisture does not reduce the effectiveness of chlorine in terms of its disinfecting properties, and while it may influence chlorine volatility in some contexts, the primary concern remains with the hazardous compounds that can form.