Question 426Steam Plants - Assistant Engineer

The correct answer is D) prevent scale forming deposits. Chemicals are added to boiler water to prevent scale forming deposits on the inside of the boiler. Scale buildup can reduce heat transfer and damage boiler components. Adding chemicals helps maintain the proper chemical balance in the boiler water to inhibit scale formation. The other answer choices are incorrect because: A) stabilizing feed water is not the primary purpose of adding chemicals, B) chemicals do not eliminate the need for blow downs, and C) maintaining an acidic condition is not the main objective - the goal is to prevent scale, which is usually caused by alkaline conditions in the boiler water.