The word "bleaching powder" is spelled with an /iː/ sound in the first syllable, represented by the letter combination "ea", and a /tʃ/ sound in the second syllable, represented by the letter "ch". The word refers to a chemical compound often used for disinfecting and whitening surfaces. Proper spelling of this word is important for communication in both scientific and everyday contexts. Additionally, accurate spelling of technical terms is crucial in fields such as chemistry, medicine, and industrial hygiene.
Bleaching powder is a chemical compound commonly used as a disinfectant, oxidizing agent, and bleaching agent. Also known as calcium hypochlorite, it is a white, crystalline substance with a strong chlorine-like odor. The chemical formula for bleaching powder is Ca(ClO)2.
Bleaching powder is primarily used for bleaching textiles, paper, and wood pulp. It is often employed in the textile industry to remove stains, brighten fabrics, and achieve a more uniform color. Furthermore, it is an important ingredient in the production of chlorine-based bleach products.
This compound is highly effective in killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi, which makes it a popular disinfectant. It is commonly used in water treatment for swimming pools, drinking water, and sewage disinfection due to its ability to destroy harmful microorganisms.
Bleaching powder has strong oxidizing properties, allowing it to remove color or pigmentation from various substances. This property makes it useful for applications such as removing stains from clothes and whitening teeth. It is also utilized as a bleaching agent in the production of flour to improve its appearance.
However, it is important to note that bleaching powder should be handled with caution due to its hazardous nature. When in contact with organic matter or reducing agents, it can release toxic chlorine gas. It should only be used in well-ventilated areas and stored in a cool, dry place away from flammable materials.
Calx chlorinata.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word bleaching powder is a compound term consisting of two words: bleaching and powder.
The term bleaching comes from the verb bleach, which can be traced back to the Old English word blæcan, meaning to whiten. This Old English term further derives from the Proto-Germanic word blaikjan, meaning to make white or bright.
The word powder has a Latin origin. It comes from the Latin noun pulvis, meaning dust or powder. This Latin term eventually influenced the Old French word poudre, which later adapted into Middle English as powder.
Combining these two terms, bleaching and powder, gives us the compound term bleaching powder.