Klorform

Klorform, also known as chloroform, is a colorless, sweet-smelling liquid with the chemical formula CHCl3. It is a halogenated methane derivative and is widely used as an anesthetic and solvent. The compound was first synthesized in 1831 by Swiss chemist Jean-Baptiste Dumas. Klorform is produced industrially by the chlorination of methane using chlorine gas in the presence of ultraviolet light.

In medical settings, klorform was once a popular anesthetic due to its rapid onset and recovery times. However, its use has significantly declined since the 1950s due to its potential for causing liver damage and other health issues. Today, it is primarily used in veterinary medicine and as a solvent in the production of pharmaceuticals and other chemicals.

Klorform is highly flammable and can form explosive mixtures with air. It is also toxic if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Proper handling and disposal procedures are essential to prevent accidents and health hazards. The compound is classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC) and is subject to regulations regarding its emission and disposal to minimize environmental impact.