Hypochlorite

Hypochlorite is a common polyatomic ion. Its chemical formula is ClO-. It is a strong oxidizing agent. Many hypochlorites are unstable and break down into chlorates and chlorides. The most common hypochlorite is sodium hypochlorite, also known as Clorox bleach. Hypochlorites are very strong disinfectants. Many of them are greenish. Aqueous solutions of sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) can be used in the synthesis of hydrazine that has often been used as a rocket fuel.