hüpokloritiioone

Hypochlorite ions are chemical species with the formula ClO-. They are anions, meaning they carry a negative electrical charge. Hypochlorite is a part of the halogen oxyanion family. It is typically formed when chlorine gas is dissolved in water or when an electrical current is passed through a solution of sodium chloride (brine). The most common form encountered is sodium hypochlorite, which is the active ingredient in household bleach.

Hypochlorite ions are strong oxidizing agents. This property makes them effective disinfectants and bleaching agents. They work by breaking down the molecular structure of organic compounds, including those found in microorganisms like bacteria and viruses, and in colored substances. Due to their oxidizing nature, they can also react with and degrade certain materials, which is why diluted solutions are generally recommended for household use. In water treatment, hypochlorite is used to kill pathogens and is a common alternative to chlorine gas for disinfection. It is also used in some industrial processes for bleaching and chemical synthesis. The stability of hypochlorite ions can be affected by factors such as pH, temperature, and the presence of other chemicals.