what is the common name of the compound caocl2
What is the common name of the compound CaOCl2?
1. Common Name Identification
Calcium hypochlorite is the common name for the compound with the chemical formula Ca(OCl)_2. It is primarily known as a bleaching or chlorinating compound. In many contexts, it is simply referred to as “bleach,” particularly when used as a disinfectant in water treatment processes.
2. Structure and Composition
Chemical Formula:
The structure of calcium hypochlorite can be divided into several key components:
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Calcium (Ca): A metallic element, calcium is often found in compounds that play vital roles in biological organisms and industrial applications.
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Hypochlorite (OCl^-): This ion is responsible for the compound’s bleaching and disinfectant properties. Each molecule of calcium hypochlorite contains two hypochlorite ions for each calcium ion.
3. Uses and Applications
Water Treatment Works:
Calcium hypochlorite is extensively used in water treatment applications for disinfecting municipal water supplies. Here’s a step-by-step process:
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Disinfection: It kills bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens, making water safe to drink.
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Oxidation: In addition to disinfection, calcium hypochlorite oxidizes iron, manganese, and hydrogen sulfide to prevent these compounds from causing taste and odor issues in water.
Swimming Pool Maintenance:
In residential and public swimming pools, calcium hypochlorite is commonly used to maintain sanitary conditions by sanitizing the water.
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Algal Prevention: It helps prevent algae growth, ensuring the pool remains clear and pleasant for swimmers.
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Bather Safety: Regular chlorination keeps the contamination levels low, reducing the risk of waterborne illnesses.
Household Cleaning:
Calcium hypochlorite can be found in some household cleaning products.
- Surface Disinfection: It’s effective in killing a high percentage of germs on surfaces, making it a staple in maintaining hygiene in households.
4. Chemical and Physical Properties
Appearance:
Typically, calcium hypochlorite is available as a white granular solid, powder, or tablet. The granules or tablets dissolve in water to release active chlorine.
Reactivity:
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With Water: It decomposes slowly in water, releasing oxygen and chlorine, which are its active ingredients. This decomposition helps with its function as a disinfectant and bleach.
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With Acids: Calcium hypochlorite reacts with acids releasing chlorine gas, which can be hazardous and therefore requires cautious handling.
5. Safety and Handling
Using calcium hypochlorite requires careful attention to safety due to its reactive nature:
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Storage: It should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from acids and organic materials to prevent hazardous reactions.
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Protective Equipment: When handling the compound, gloves and eye protection should be worn to prevent irritation and chemical burns.
6. Environmental Impact
Chlorine Release:
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In water, calcium hypochlorite releases chlorine, which can adversely affect aquatic life if discharged into the environment in large quantities without prior treatment.
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Biodegradability: Through natural chemical processes, chlorine compounds eventually break down, though ongoing discharge can lead to the accumulation of chlorinated organic compounds, which are harmful.
7. Historical and Industrial Context
Discovery and Development:
- The development of calcium hypochlorite dates back to the 18th century when the use of chlorinated compounds for disinfection and bleaching began to be understood scientifically. Over the years, it has become a staple in household products and industrial applications.
Manufacturing:
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The synthesis of calcium hypochlorite typically involves the reaction of calcium hydroxide with chlorine gas.
2 \text{Ca(OH)}_2 + 2 \text{Cl}_2 \rightarrow \text{Ca(OCl)}_2 + \text{CaCl}_2 + 2 \text{H}_2\text{O}
This reaction reflects its production on an industrial scale, allowing for its widespread availability.
8. Comparison with Other Chlorinating Agents
Sodium Hypochlorite vs. Calcium Hypochlorite:
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Sodium hypochlorite (commonly known as liquid bleach) and calcium hypochlorite are both used for disinfection, but they differ in concentration and application forms.
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Sodium: Typically available as a solution, it’s easier to apply but less stable over long periods than calcium hypochlorite.
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Calcium Hypochlorite: Being a solid, it offers greater stability and can be stored longer under appropriate conditions.
9. Practical Examples
Example in Water Treatment:
- In a municipal water treatment plant, calcium hypochlorite is dissolved in water to form a chlorine solution, which is then dosed into the water supply system. By doing this, the residual chlorine level ensures the water remains potable as it travels through distribution networks to consumers.
Example in Household Use:
- A homeowner might use calcium hypochlorite tablets to shock a swimming pool, especially after heavy rainfall or high bathing loads, which can introduce contaminants and nutrients that promote algae and bacteria growth.
Summary
Calcium hypochlorite, commonly known as “bleach,” is a crucial compound for disinfecting and treating water, maintaining hygienic conditions in pools, and cleaning surfaces. It serves an essential role in modern public health and industrial processes but requires careful handling due to its reactive nature. This compound’s versatility and effectiveness make it an indispensable chemical in various applications.