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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Chlorite and Chloride?

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The main difference between chlorite and chloride lies in their chemical formulas, oxidation states, and oxidizing properties. Here are the key differences:

  1. Chemical Formula: Chloride is an ion generated when a chlorine atom gains an electron, with the chemical formula Cl-1. Chlorite is a polyatomic ion with the formula ClO2-1, consisting of two oxygen atoms sharing electrons with a chlorine atom.
  2. Oxidation States: Chloride does not change its oxidation state during a chemical reaction. In contrast, chlorite can increase its oxidation state and can further reduce it, making it an oxidizing agent.
  3. Oxidizing Properties: Chlorite is a strongly oxidizing agent, while chloride is not an oxidizing agent but can act as a reducing agent.

In summary, chlorite and chloride are anions derived from chlorine atoms, but they have different chemical formulas, oxidation states, and oxidizing properties. Chlorite is a strongly oxidizing agent, whereas chloride is not an oxidizing agent but can act as a reducing agent.

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  • What is the Difference Between Chlorite and Chloride?
  • Comparative Table: Chlorite vs Chloride

    • Comparative Table: Chlorite vs Chloride

    Here is a table comparing the differences between chlorite and chloride:

    Property Chlorite Chloride
    Chemical Formula ClO2– Cl–
    Molar Mass 67.45 g/mol N/A
    Oxidation State +3 -1
    Electron Configuration [Ne] 3sÂČ3p⁶ [Ar] 3dÂč⁰4sÂČ4p⁶
    Type of Compound Oxyanion Halide
    Oxidizing/Reducing Agent Strongly oxidizing Not an oxidizing agent, can act as a reducing agent
    Uses Used in the production of chlorine dioxide, which is used as a bleaching agent and disinfectant Sodium chloride (table salt) is used as a seasoning, preservative, and in various industrial applications

    Chlorite is an oxyanion with the chemical formula ClO2–, and it is a strongly oxidizing agent. Chloride, on the other hand, is a halide with the chemical formula Cl–, and it is not an oxidizing agent but can act as a reducing agent. Chlorite and chloride are both derived from chlorine atoms, but they have different oxidation states, electron configurations, and uses.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of SĂŁo Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.