hypochlorous acid

noun

1. a weak, unstable acid, HOCl, existing only in solution and in the form of its salts, used as a bleaching agent and disinfectant.

hypochlorous acid

/ ˌhaɪpəˈklɔːrəs /

noun

1. an unstable acid known only in solution and in the form of its salts, formed when chlorine dissolves in water: a strong oxidizing and bleaching agent. Formula: HOCl

hypochlorous acid

/ hī′pə-klôr′əs /

1. A weak, unstable acid occurring only in solution and used as a bleach, oxidizer, deodorant, and disinfectant. Chemical formula: HOCl.

Word History and Origins

Origin of hypochlorous acid¹

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

The main advantage of the disinfectant, hypochlorous acid, is that it is not harmful to human skin or food, Avraham told The Times of Israel.

From Fox News

Mixing bleach and water produces hypochlorous acid, which can react with the dirt and debris on your floor or counter.

From Scientific American

According to the outlet, the machine sprays a mist of hypochlorous acid water.

From Fox News

The pub in Tokyo’s normally bustling Shinjuku district has installed a machine that sprays customers with hypochlorous acid water as they enter.

From Reuters

The solution’s main active ingredient is hypochlorous acid—a naturally occurring molecule in the human body that fights infection.

From Forbes