H

Hypochlorous acid

IUPAC: hypochlorous acid

HClO Acids CAS 7790-92-3
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Quick Reference
Formula / NotationHClO
CAS Number7790-92-3
Molecular Weight52.46
AppearanceLiquid
Also Known As7790-92-3; HClO; HOCl; chloranol; Comfosy; hydroxidochlorine; hypochloric acid; 712K4CDC10; DTXSID3036737; CHEBI:24757
CategoryAcids

What is Hypochlorous acid?

Hypochlorous acid is a chlorine oxoacid with formula HOCl; a weak, unstable acid, it is the active form of chlorine in water. It has a role as an EC 3.1.1.7 (acetylcholinesterase) inhibitor, an EC 2.5.1.18 (glutathione transferase) inhibitor and a human metabolite. It is a member of reactive oxygen species and a chlorine oxoacid. It is a conjugate acid of a hypochlorite.

Formula & Notation

HClO

IUPAC Name: hypochlorous acid

Other Names / Synonyms: 7790-92-3; HClO; HOCl; chloranol; Comfosy; hydroxidochlorine; hypochloric acid; 712K4CDC10; DTXSID3036737; CHEBI:24757

Properties & Characteristics

Appearance: Liquid. Molecular formula: ClHO. Molecular weight: 52.46 g/mol. LogP: 0.3.

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Molecular Weight52.46
AppearanceLiquid

Uses & Applications

Used in industrial chemical synthesis, fertilizer production, battery electrolytes, metal processing, and laboratory acid-base reactions.

Safety Information

Corrosive. Causes severe burns to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Wear appropriate PPE including gloves, goggles, and lab coat. Consult SDS before use.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Hypochlorous acid
Formula HClO
CAS Number 7790-92-3
Molecular Weight 52.46
Category Acids
Synonyms 7790-92-3; HClO; HOCl; chloranol; Comfosy; hydroxidochlorine; hypochloric acid; 712K4CDC10; DTXSID3036737; CHEBI:24757

Frequently Asked Questions

Hypochlorous acid is a chlorine oxoacid with formula HOCl; a weak, unstable acid, it is the active form of chlorine in water. It has a role as an EC 3.1.1.7 (acetylcholinesterase) inhibitor, an EC 2.5.1.18 (glutathione transferase) inhibitor and a human metabolite. It is a member of reactive oxygen species and a chlorine oxoacid. It is a conjugate acid of a hypochlorite.

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Editorial standards: Chemical data is sourced from peer-reviewed literature, CAS Registry, NIST WebBook, and PubChem. Safety information reflects guidance from OSHA, ECHA, and IAEA. For educational purposes only — always consult official SDS documentation and qualified professionals before handling chemicals.