hüpokloriit

Hypochlorite refers to the anion with the chemical formula ClO−. It is a polyatomic ion composed of one chlorine atom and one oxygen atom, with an overall negative charge. Hypochlorites are salts or esters of hypochlorous acid.

The hypochlorite ion is a strong oxidizing agent and is a key component in many bleaching and disinfecting agents. For example, sodium hypochlorite (NaClO), commonly known as liquid bleach, is widely used for household cleaning and water purification. Calcium hypochlorite (Ca(ClO)2) is another common disinfectant, often used in swimming pools.

Hypochlorites are formed when chlorine gas reacts with a base. In the case of sodium hypochlorite, chlorine gas bubbled through a solution of sodium hydroxide produces sodium hypochlorite and sodium chloride. The ion is relatively unstable and can decompose, especially when exposed to heat, light, or certain chemicals.

In biological systems, hypochlorites are produced by certain white blood cells, such as neutrophils, as part of the immune response to fight off infections. This process involves the enzyme myeloperoxidase, which catalyzes the reaction of hydrogen peroxide with chloride ions to produce hypochlorous acid. Hypochlorous acid is a potent antimicrobial agent.

The chemical reactivity of hypochlorites stems from the high oxidation state of chlorine (+1). They readily accept electrons from other substances, causing oxidation. This oxidizing power is what makes them effective disinfectants, as they can damage the essential cellular components of microorganisms.