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Sodium Hypochlorite

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When our favorite white T-shirt gets badly stained, we reach for our favorite laundry detergent that contains bleach. The bleaching agent present in the detergent is a chemical called sodium hypochlorite, which is the focus of our discussion in this lesson.

!!!What is Sodium Hypochlorite?

When our favorite articles of clothing get stained, and when we need to clean our bathrooms, we reach for our laundry detergent household cleaners that contain bleach.

Bleach

The main constituent of household bleach is a chemical called sodium hypochlorite. __Sodium hypochlorite__ in liquid form is greenish or yellowish in color and is commonly referred to as bleach because it is the active ingredient in bleach. Its chemical formula is __NaClO__, composed of one sodium (Na) atom, one chlorine (Cl) atom and one oxygen (O) atom. Its chemical structure shows that hypochlorite ion (ClO-) has an ionic bond with sodium (Na+) ion.

Sodium Hypochlorite Chemical Structure

Sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) is produced by a process known as the __Hooker process__, which is the method used for a large-scale production of NaClO. In the Hooker process, sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is exposed to chlorine gas (Cl2). Along with sodium hypochlorite, the reaction between these two substances produces sodium chloride (NaCl), water (H2O):

Cl2 + 2NaOH …show more content…

We must make sure to not mix sodium hypochlorite with ammonia because it produces toxic vapors. Inhalation of sodium hypochlorite can irritate the lungs, so if this happens seek fresh air immediately and call for medical help if needed. While low concentrations prevent skin damage, high concentrations on our skin can cause burns and irritation. Sodium hypochlorite is also an eye irritant. If skin and eyes come into contact with sodium hypochlorite, flush with water immediately and seek medical attention if this doesn’t

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