Hypochlorite
Hypochlorite
Hypochlorite (pronounced: hi-po-klor-ite) is a chemical compound containing the hypochlorite ion, ClO-. Hypochlorites are the salts of hypochlorous acid and are often used as disinfectants.
Etymology
The term "hypochlorite" is derived from the Greek words "hypo", meaning under, and "chloros", meaning greenish-yellow (the color of chlorine). It was first used in the early 19th century to describe compounds that contained less chlorine than chlorides.
Related Terms
- Chlorine: A chemical element with the symbol Cl and atomic number 17. It is a greenish-yellow gas that is a strong oxidizing agent.
- Hypochlorous acid: A weak acid that is typically formed when chlorine dissolves in water. It is often used as a disinfectant.
- Disinfectant: Substances that are applied to non-living objects to destroy microorganisms that are living on the objects.
- Oxidizing agent: A substance that has the ability to oxidize other substances — in other words, it accepts their electrons.
Uses
Hypochlorites are widely used in disinfection and as bleaching agents. The calcium hypochlorite (Ca(ClO)2) is a general disinfectant for cleaning swimming pools and disinfecting drinking water. In household bleach, sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) is the active ingredient.
Safety
Hypochlorites are corrosive and can cause burns to the skin and eyes. They should be handled with care, and appropriate safety measures should be taken when using products containing hypochlorites.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hypochlorite
- Wikipedia's article - Hypochlorite
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