chlorine dioxide
Definition
- Noun:
- A chemical compound: Chlorine dioxide is a chemical compound with the formula ClO₂. It is a synthetic, yellowish-green gas at room temperature.
- An oxidizing agent: It is a potent oxidizing agent used primarily for bleaching and disinfection purposes.
Usage and Examples
- Noun:
- The water treatment plant uses chlorine dioxide for purification.
- Chlorine dioxide is an effective bleaching agent for wood pulp in paper manufacturing.
Advanced Usage
- Industrial Context: The term is primarily used in industrial, environmental, and chemical engineering contexts to denote a specific bleaching and disinfecting agent.
- The safety protocols for handling chlorine dioxide are very strict due to its explosive nature.
Variants and Related Words
- Chlorite (n): A salt of chlorous acid, often related in chemical processes involving chlorine dioxide.
- Oxidizer (n): A general term for a substance that oxidizes another substance; chlorine dioxide is a type of oxidizer.
Synonyms
- Bleaching agent: A substance used to whiten or remove color.
- Disinfectant: An agent that destroys harmful microorganisms.
- Oxidizing gas: A gaseous substance that can accept electrons from another substance in a redox reaction.
Notes on Meaning
- Primary Meaning: The dominant meaning refers to the specific chemical compound (ClO₂) used in industrial processes.
- Safety Connotation: The term often carries an inherent note of caution due to the compound's explosive and reactive properties.
Noun
-
an explosive gas (ClO2) used chiefly in bleaching paper or starch or soap or flour and in water purification
