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

It is readily soluble in water, with which it combines to form hypochlorous acid.

From Project Gutenberg

One of the most important derivatives of hypochlorous acid is bleaching powder.

From Project Gutenberg

Hypochlorous acid first reddens, and then bleaches, litmus-paper.

From Project Gutenberg

The hypochlorous acid in the presence of oxidisable matter gives off its oxygen; hydrochloric acid being left.

From Project Gutenberg

The loss can be explained by the decomposition of hypochlorous acid, in the presence of light, into hydrochloric acid and oxygen.

From Project Gutenberg