Chlorine
by Yogi P - October 22, 2023
Chlorine: Nature’s Purifier
Chlorine is an element found naturally in the environment. It is essential for all life, as it helps to purify water, sanitise soil and prevent the spread of certain diseases.
Chlorine is one of the most commonly used substances in everyday life, and it is an essential ingredient for maintaining proper levels of health and safety.
History and Discovery of Chlorine
Chlorine was first discovered and isolated by Swedish scientist Carl Wilhelm Scheele in 1774. He was able to produce chlorine gas by heating green vitriol (iron sulfate) with spiritus salis (hydrochloric acid).
Scheele named the gas “Chlorine” as it is derived from the Greek word “chloros”, meaning “greenish-yellow”.
Properties of Chlorine
- Atomic number: 17
- Symbol: Cl
- Atomic mass: 35.45 g/mol
- Melting point: -34.6°C
- Boiling point: -29.8°C
- Density: 3.214 g/L
- Valence electrons: 7
Uses of Chlorine
Specific Uses
- Purifying Water – Chlorine is often added to public water systems as a disinfectant to prevent the spread of water-borne diseases. It is effective at killing germs, bacteria, and other microorganisms that may cause illness.
- Disinfecting Surfaces – Chlorine is also used to help sanitise surfaces in households and public areas to reduce the spread of infections.
- Making Plastics – Chlorine is a key ingredient in the production of many plastics, including polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyurethane (PU).
- Making Drugs – Chlorine is often used in the production of certain drugs, such as antidepressants, antibiotics, and antihistamines.
- Bleaching Materials – Chlorine is used to bleach paper, fabrics, and other materials and can be used to make them look brighter and cleaner.
Safety Precautions
Inhalation of chlorine gas can be potentially lethal, and contact with liquid chlorine can cause severe burns. It is important to always use the correct protective equipment when handling chlorine and make sure the area is well ventilated.
Chlorine should also be stored in a well-sealed container away from heat and moisture, and keep it away from any combustible material.
Conclusion
Chlorine is a powerful and important element in nature, and it has many practical and commercial uses in everyday life. It is essential to understand the importance of chlorine and take the necessary safety precautions when handling it.
When used correctly, chlorine can be a valuable resource for purifying water, disinfecting surfaces, making plastics and drugs, and bleaching materials.
