Pool shock and chlorine are both chemicals used to disinfect pools, but they are not the same thing. Pool shock is a strong oxidizer that kills bacteria and other microorganisms. Chlorine is a halogen that also kills bacteria and other microorganisms, but it is not as strong as pool shock.

Pool shock is typically used to initially chlorinate a pool or to superchlorinate a pool that has become contaminated. Chlorine is typically used to maintain a constant level of sanitizer in a pool.

Pool shock and chlorine can both be harmful if they are not used properly. Pool shock can cause skin and eye irritation, and it can also damage pool equipment. Chlorine can also cause skin and eye irritation, and it can also form harmful chloramines if it is not properly maintained.

It is important to follow the directions on the pool shock and chlorine labels carefully when using these chemicals.