Chlorate definitions
| Word backwards | etarolhc |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | noun |
| Syllabic division | Chlo-rate |
| Plural | The plural form of chlorate is chlorates. |
| Total letters | 8 |
| Vogais (3) | o,a,e |
| Consonants (5) | c,h,l,r,t |
Chlorate, a chemical compound with the formula ClO3-, is an anion consisting of one chlorine atom and three oxygen atoms. It is commonly found in the form of various salts, such as sodium chlorate and potassium chlorate. Chlorates are powerful oxidizing agents and have several industrial applications.
Properties of Chlorate
Chlorate compounds are usually white crystalline solids that are soluble in water. They are stable in neutral or alkaline solutions but can readily decompose in acidic conditions, releasing oxygen gas. This decomposition can be violent and is a key reason why chlorates are used in explosives and fireworks.
Uses of Chlorate
One of the primary uses of chlorate compounds is as oxidizing agents in the production of matches, explosives, and fireworks. They are also used in the manufacture of herbicides, bleaching agents, and disinfectants. In the past, chlorates were used as a source of oxygen in breathing apparatus.
Health and Safety Concerns
Chlorates are toxic when ingested and can cause gastrointestinal irritation, kidney damage, and even methemoglobinemia, a condition where hemoglobin is unable to carry oxygen effectively. They are also hazardous in fire situations due to their ability to release oxygen and support combustion. Proper storage and handling procedures are essential when working with chlorate compounds.
Overall, chlorates are versatile compounds with important industrial applications, but their reactivity and toxicity require careful handling and storage to ensure safety for both human health and the environment.
Chlorate Examples
- Sodium chlorate is commonly used as a herbicide in agriculture.
- Potassium chlorate is used in the production of fireworks.
- Calcium chlorate is sometimes used as an oxidizing agent in fireworks.
- Barium chlorate is a compound often used in pyrotechnics.
- Lead chlorate can be used in the manufacture of matches.
- Silver chlorate is utilized in the field of photography.
- Mercury chlorate has been used in the past for medicinal purposes.
- Copper chlorate is a chemical compound that is sometimes used in labs for experiments.
- Aluminum chlorate is employed in the production of paints and dyes.
- Iron chlorate is used in water treatment processes to remove impurities.