Definition

1. Noun:
   • A chemical compound used for bleaching and disinfection: "Bleaching powder" is a white, powdery substance composed primarily of calcium hypochlorite, calcium chloride, and calcium hydroxide. It is a strong oxidizing agent used to whiten materials and kill germs.

Usage

• Bleaching powder is primarily used as a disinfectant for water and surfaces, and as a bleaching agent for textiles and paper pulp.
• It is typically handled with care, as it can be corrosive and release chlorine gas.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The municipal water supply is treated with bleaching powder to make it safe for drinking.
  • She used a dilute solution of bleaching powder to remove the stain from the white cotton fabric.
  • Store the bleaching powder in a cool, dry place away from acids.

Advanced Usage

• "Chloride of lime": This is an older, common synonym for bleaching powder, reflecting its chemical composition.
  • Chloride of lime was historically used in large quantities for sanitation.

Variants and Related Words

• Calcium hypochlorite (n): This is the primary active chemical component in modern, high-strength bleaching powders.
  • The swimming pool was shocked with calcium hypochlorite.

Synonyms

• Chlorinated lime: A direct synonym for bleaching powder.
• Disinfectant powder: A descriptive term highlighting one of its primary functions.

Notes on Meaning

• The term specifically refers to the mixed powder. Its bleaching and disinfecting power comes from its ability to release chlorine. It should not be confused with simple "chlorine bleach" (usually a sodium hypochlorite solution) or with plain "lime" (calcium oxide or hydroxide).

Noun

1. a white powder comprised of calcium hydroxide and chloride and hypochlorite and used to bleach and/or disinfect