Hypochlorous acid
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Hypochlorous acid is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula ClOH, also written as HClO, HOCl, or ClHO.[2][3] Its structure is H−O−Cl. It is an acid that forms when chlorine dissolves in water, and itself partially dissociates, forming hypochlorite anion, ClO−. HClO and ClO− are oxidizers, and the primary disinfection agents of chlorine solutions.[4] HClO cannot be isolated from these solutions due to rapid equilibration with its precursor, chlorine.
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IUPAC name
Hypochlorous acid | |
Other names
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Identifiers | |
3D model (JSmol) |
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ChEBI | |
ChemSpider |
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ECHA InfoCard | 100.029.302 |
EC Number |
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Properties | |
HOCl | |
Molar mass | 52.46 g·mol−1 |
Appearance | Colorless aqueous solution |
Density | Variable |
Soluble | |
Acidity (pKa) | 7.53[1] |
Conjugate base | Hypochlorite |
Hazards | |
Occupational safety and health (OHS/OSH): | |
Main hazards |
corrosive, oxidizing agent |
GHS labelling: | |
H320, H335 | |
P301+P330+P331, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338 | |
NFPA 704 (fire diamond) | |
Safety data sheet (SDS) | chemfresh.com |
Related compounds | |
Other anions |
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Related compounds |
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Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C [77 °F], 100 kPa).
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Because of its strong antimicrobial properties, the related compounds sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and calcium hypochlorite (Ca(OCl)2) are ingredients in many commercial bleaches, deodorants, and disinfectants.[5] The white blood cells of mammals, such as humans, also contain hypochlorous acid as a tool against foreign bodies.[6] In living organisms, HOCl is generated by the reaction of hydrogen peroxide with chloride ions under the catalysis of the heme enzyme myeloperoxidase (MPO).[7]
Like many other disinfectants, hypochlorous acid solutions will destroy pathogens, such as COVID-19, absorbed on surfaces.[8] In low concentrations, such solutions can serve to disinfect open wounds.[9]