chlorous
Definition
Adjective (Chemistry): "Chlorous" refers to a chemical compound or state in which chlorine has a valence of +3, typically forming chlorous acid (HClO₂) or its salts (chlorites). It is used to describe substances containing chlorine in a lower oxidation state than chloric or perchloric compounds.
Usage Examples
- (A solution containing chlorine in the +3 oxidation state.)
- (Substances with chlorine in the +3 state that whiten or disinfect.)
Advanced Usage
- "Chlorous anhydride": another term for chlorine dioxide (ClO₂), a gas used in water treatment.
- Chlorous anhydride is effective against bacteria in drinking water. (Chlorine dioxide is used as a disinfectant.)
Variants and Related Words
Chlorite (noun): a salt or ester of chlorous acid, containing the ion ClO₂⁻.
- Sodium chlorite is a common bleaching agent. (A salt derived from chlorous acid.)
Chloric (adjective): relating to chlorine in a +5 oxidation state (e.g., chloric acid, HClO₃).
- Chloric acid is stronger than chlorous acid. (A higher oxidation state of chlorine.)
Synonyms
- Chlorine trioxide (not a direct synonym, but refers to the oxide of chlorous acid): Cl₂O₃.
- Chlorine(III) (nomenclature): indicating the +3 oxidation state of chlorine.
Related Idioms
- None commonly used; "chlorous" is a technical term primarily in chemistry contexts.