Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Chlorine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿงช
Add to dictionary

chlorine

[หˆklษ”หriหn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

chemical element

Chlorine is a chemical element with the symbol Cl and atomic number 17. It is a yellow-green gas at room temperature and has a strong, pungent odor. Chlorine belongs to the halogen group in the periodic table and is used widely as a disinfectant and bleaching agent. In addition to its industrial applications, chlorine is also used for water purification and in the production of various consumer products, such as plastics, textiles, and solvents.

Synonyms

cl, halogen.

Examples of usage

  • Chlorine is essential for clean drinking water.
  • Swimming pools are often treated with chlorine.
  • The manufacturing process for PVC requires chlorine.
  • Chlorine gas can be hazardous if inhaled.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • It's a strong disinfectant and is commonly used in swimming pools to eliminate harmful bacteria.
  • Chlorine plays a crucial role in water treatment processes, making drinking water safer for people.
  • Itโ€™s also essential in creating various chemicals, including plastics and pesticides.

Health

  • Exposure to high levels can cause respiratory problems, but it is safe in regulated amounts in water.
  • Chlorine is crucial in eliminating waterborne diseases, significantly reducing illness caused by contaminated water.

Pop Culture

  • Chlorine has made its way into popular songs and literature, often symbolizing cleanliness or danger, depending on the context.
  • In movies, swimming scenes often highlight the importance of clean, chlorinated water, showcasing a safe environment.

Industry

  • Chlorine is a significant component in the production of bleach, which is widely used for cleaning laundry and surfaces.
  • Itโ€™s used in the paper industry to help whiten paper products during manufacturing.

Origin of 'chlorine'

Main points about word origin

  • The name comes from the Greek word 'chloros,' meaning green, reflecting its color.
  • First recognized as an element in 1774 by Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele.

The word 'chlorine' comes from the Greek word 'chloros', meaning 'pale green'. It was first discovered in 1774 by the Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele, who isolated it from hydrochloric acid by reacting it with manganese dioxide. However, it was not until 1809 that Sir Humphry Davy definitively recognized chlorine as an element. Initially, chlorine was considered a compound, and its isolation was a significant milestone in chemistry. Davy named it 'chlorine' because of its color, and in subsequent years, it became widely used in various applications, especially as a disinfectant in the late 19th century. Today, chlorine is a vital chemical in modern industry, with its uses expanding beyond sanitation to include various organic and inorganic compounds.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,216 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.