Description
Calcium hypochlorite, with the chemical formula Ca(ClO)2, is an inorganic compound widely known as bleaching powder or chlorinated lime. It is a white to yellowish solid with a strong chlorine odor, a characteristic that comes from its slow decomposition in moist air.
Chemical properties
| Property | Value |
| Chemical formula | Ca(ClO)₂ |
| Molar mass | 142.98 g/mol |
| Appearance | White to yellowish solid (powder, granules, or tablets) |
| Melting point | Decomposes at ~100 °C |
| Solubility in water | Fairly soluble; lower solubility in hard water |
| Behavior in water | Reacts with water to form hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and hydroxide ions (OH⁻) |
| Chemical nature | Strong oxidizing and bleaching agent |
Uses
Calcium hypochlorite is a versatile compound primarily valued for its powerful oxidizing and disinfecting properties. Its main uses include:
- Water Treatment: It is a primary disinfectant for public swimming pools and is used to purify drinking water and wastewater. It effectively kills bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms.
- Bleaching: As the main active ingredient in commercial bleaching powders, it is used to bleach textiles like cotton and linen, as well as wood pulp.
- Sanitation: It is used as a sanitizer for kitchen surfaces, bathrooms, and equipment to destroy germs and prevent food-borne illnesses.
- Industrial Applications: It acts as a general oxidizing agent in organic chemistry, for example, in the production of chloroform. It is also used in some household cleaners, moss and algae removers, and weedkillers.
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