whitens

Whitens is the third-person singular present tense of the verb whiten, meaning to make or become white or lighter in color.

Etymology: The verb whiten derives from the adjective white, with the English suffix -en; it is attested in Middle English and has long been used to describe the act of making something less colored or more pale.

In laundry and textiles, whitening methods aim to brighten fabrics and remove stains. Oxygen-based bleaches, such as sodium percarbonate or hydrogen peroxide, release active oxygen that oxidizes stains. Chlorine-based bleach (sodium hypochlorite) is stronger and can whiten effectively but may damage fibers or colors if misused.

In the paper and pulp industry, whitening refers to the production of white paper by bleaching wood pulp. Common approaches use chlorine dioxide and peroxide-based processes, with ongoing efforts to reduce environmental impact and the use of chlorine-containing chemicals.

In food processing, whitening agents are used to lighten the appearance of products such as flour, sugar, and dairy. The use of these agents is regulated in many jurisdictions, and safety, labeling, and consumer acceptance influence their deployment.

In personal care, whitening appears in two broad areas. Teeth whitening uses peroxide-based gels to lighten enamel color. Skin whitening products claim to reduce melanin or even out complexion, but safety, efficacy, and ethical considerations vary by market and regulation.

See also: bleaching; whitening agents.