Which of the following is true about bromine?

Bromine is indeed recognized as a biocidal agent used to disinfect pool water, making it a popular alternative to chlorine in both residential and commercial swimming pools. Its effectiveness lies in its ability to kill bacteria and algae, which are crucial for maintaining sanitary conditions in pool water. Bromine operates effectively across a range of pH levels, and its residual presence in water can help provide ongoing disinfection even after the initial application.

Unlike chlorine, bromine forms bromamines when it reacts with contaminants, which retain some disinfecting properties. This quality enables bromine to be particularly beneficial in indoor pools or hot tubs, where its lower odor and irritation potential compared to chlorine may be preferable.

As for the other claims, bromine is not exclusively used in commercial pools, it does not exist as a gas at room temperature but rather as a liquid, and it is effective as an oxidant, which allows it to assist in breaking down organic matter in pool water.