This site was a god send but after avidly reading all the posts I am now totally confused from information overload. I have reduced what I have read to the following, so could someone tell me if I have this right:

TA keeps the PH from bouncing.
Ph prevents algae.(Not sure I have this right)
CYA stabilizes the CL.
CL sanitizes and kills off the impurites in the water.
Filter carries away the dirt.

What's that old axiom? A little knowledge makes you dangerous?