hüpokloriidioon

Hypochlorite ion is a polyatomic anion with the chemical formula ClO-. It consists of a chlorine atom covalently bonded to an oxygen atom, with an overall negative charge. The hypochlorite ion is the conjugate base of hypochlorous acid, HClO. It is a strong oxidizing agent and is widely used for its disinfectant and bleaching properties. Common sources of hypochlorite ions include sodium hypochlorite (NaClO), found in household bleach, and calcium hypochlorite (Ca(ClO)2), used in swimming pool sanitizers. In aqueous solutions, hypochlorite ions readily react with various organic and inorganic substances, leading to their oxidation and degradation. This reactivity is the basis for its effectiveness in killing bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. However, it can also react with certain chemicals, such as ammonia, to form potentially hazardous chloramines. The stability of the hypochlorite ion is dependent on factors like pH and temperature, with higher temperatures and extreme pH values generally leading to its decomposition. Hypochlorite ions play a role in biological processes as well, with some immune cells producing hypochlorous acid as part of their defense against pathogens.