7
7
7
7
7
7
-
Hypochloric Acid
Hypochloric Acid
Hypochlorous acid is a weak acid with the chemical formula HClO. It forms when chlorine dissolves in water, and it is HClO that actually does the disinfection when chlorine is used to disinfect water for human use[citation needed]. It cannot be isolated in pure form due to rapid equilibration with its precursor. HClO is an oxidizer, and as its sodium salt sodium hypochlorite, (NaClO), or its calcium salt calcium hypochlorite, (Ca(ClO)2) is used as a bleach, a deodorant, and a disinfectant.
Uses
1. In water treatment, hypochlorous acid is the active sanitizer in hypochlorite-based products.
2. In organic synthesis, HOCl converts alkenes to chlorohydrins.
3. In the cosmetics industry it is used as a skin cleansing agent, which benefits the body's skin rather than causing drying. It is also used in baby products, because baby skin is particularly sensitive and can be easily irritated.