Decomposition of Calcium Hypochlorite
2Ca(OCl)2 → 2CaCl2 + O2
Overview
Calcium hypochlorite slowly decomposes to release oxygen, which is why it has strong oxidizing and bleaching properties. The decomposition rate increases with temperature and moisture. This is the active ingredient in many pool chlorination products.
Participants
| Role | Substance | Coefficient | State |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reactant | Calcium Hypochlorite Ca(OCl)₂ | 2 | (s) |
| Product | Oxygen O | 1 | (g) |
Everyday Example
Pool shock treatment uses calcium hypochlorite, which decomposes to release available chlorine and oxygen for water disinfection.
Industrial Importance
Used extensively in water treatment, swimming pool disinfection, and bleaching. Proper storage is critical as the decomposition can accelerate and become hazardous.
Properties
- Type
- Decomposition
- Reversible
- No
- Energy
- Exothermic
- ΔH
- -202.0 kJ/mol
Related Reactions
Cracking of Octane (Thermal Cracking)
Decomposition of Ammonium Nitrate
Decomposition of Barium Peroxide
Decomposition of Calcium Carbonate (Calcination)
Decomposition of Carbonic Acid
Decomposition of Hydrogen Peroxide
Decomposition of Iron(II,III) Oxide (Direct Reduction)
Decomposition of Nitroglycerin
Decomposition of Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas)
Decomposition of Ozone
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the equation for Decomposition of Calcium Hypochlorite?
The balanced equation is: 2Ca(OCl)₂ → 2CaCl₂ + O₂.
What type of reaction is Decomposition of Calcium Hypochlorite?
Decomposition of Calcium Hypochlorite is a decomposition reaction.
Is Decomposition of Calcium Hypochlorite exothermic or endothermic?
Decomposition of Calcium Hypochlorite is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -202.0 kJ/mol.