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Why does sodium hypochlorite have the strongest oxidizing capacity in acidic conditions?
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This post was last edited by Du Xiaoping on 2017-1-12 at 08:17. Based on the reaction equations, NaClO + HCl = HClO + NaCl; if there is an excess of acid, then HClO + HCl = Cl2↑ + H2O. Hypochlorous acid has a strong oxidizing property, and chlorine gas is also a very powerful oxidant.
Yes, as Du Gong said, under acidic conditions, hypochlorite is extremely unstable and possesses strong oxidizing properties. But it cannot be preserved under acidic conditions at all; it becomes ineffective immediately.
Thank you very much. Is it because of the additional chlorine that gives it a stronger oxidizing capacity?
In our industry, we control the pH at a level between 7 and 8. During long periods of shutdown, the recovery tank emits an irritating, pungent odor; could it be HCl? It’s great to meet you
Yes, both hypochlorous acid and chlorine are strong oxidizing agents.
Keep the pH between 7 and 8. What is the alkalinity level of the sodium hypochlorite that has been prepared? In other words, what is the concentration of sodium hydroxide? What does pH 7 mean? The hydrogen ion concentration is 1×10-7 mol/L, so the pH remains between 7 and 8; thus, its alkalinity is extremely low compared to that of the 32% concentrated alkali. Given the tendency of sodium hypochlorite to decompose, it is normal for there to be a pungent, irritating smell; therefore, it is necessary to maintain a certain alkaline concentration of sodium hypochlorite as a means to prevent its decomposition.
There is also the issue of how to prepare sodium hypochlorite – by using caustic soda and sodium hypochlorite, or by combining chlorine gas, alkali solution, and water? When the pH reaches 7–8, it cannot be stored for long periods as its acidity decomposes very quickly. As for the pungent smell of the recovery tank, chlorine and hydrogen chloride are quite different and should be distinguishable.