Question

What commercially available compound is used to generate cl2?

Answer 1

Hello!

The commercially available compound that is used to generate Cl₂ is Sodium Hypochlorite

Why?

Sodium Hypochlorite is present in commercial bleach. Its chemical formula is NaClO.

Sodium Hypochlorite can react with acids (which can be present in vinegar, glass and window cleaners, drain cleaners or lime, calcium and rust removal products) to form Chlorine gas as shown by the following reaction (for a generic acid HA)

NaClO(aq) + HA(aq) → H₂O(aq) + Cl₂(g) + NaA(aq)

Chlorine gas is very toxic, so bleach should never be mixed with anything but water.

Have a nice day!

Answer 2

Bleach and ammonia can be used to make cl2. Bleach is commercially available and so people should be very careful during these experiments or even when mixing things in the household.