🧪 Chlorine (Cl₂) Powerful Disinfectant and Industrial Chemical
Chlorine is a reactive halogen element with the symbol Cl and atomic number 17. In its elemental form, it is a greenish-yellow gas with a sharp, irritating odor.
🔬 Basic Properties:
- Chemical Symbol: Cl
- Atomic Number: 17
- Molecular Formula (gas): Cl₂
- State at Room Temp: Gas
- Color: Green-yellow
- Odor: Strong and pungent
- Highly toxic and corrosive in pure form
✅ Major Uses:
1. Water Treatment
- Disinfects drinking water and swimming pools
- Kills bacteria, viruses, and algae
2. Household Cleaners
- Active ingredient in bleach (sodium hypochlorite)
- Used in sanitizing sprays and laundry products
3. Chemical Manufacturing
- Makes PVC plastic, solvents, hydrochloric acid (HCl), and other industrial compounds
4. Pharmaceuticals & Food Industry
- Used under strict controls for sterilizing equipment or surfaces
5. Agriculture
- Used in pesticides and cleaning irrigation systems
⚠️ Safety Information:
| Hazard | Description |
|---|---|
| Inhalation | Toxic, causes coughing, throat irritation, and breathing issues |
| Skin/Eye Contact | Corrosive, can cause burns or serious irritation |
| Storage | Store in well-ventilated areas away from heat and organic materials |
| PPE | Use gloves, goggles, and respirators when handling concentrated chlorine |
🧼 Forms You Might Encounter:
- Gas (Cl₂): Used industrially
- Liquid Chlorine: Pressurized form of the gas
- Sodium Hypochlorite: Found in bleach and household cleaners
- Calcium Hypochlorite: Common in pool disinfectants
- Chlorine Tablets: 1-inch or 3-inch tablets for pool chlorination