Odor: In the pure state, chlorates are not odiferous. Upon heating and decomposition, the chlorates are said to evolve the characteristic bleaching odor chlorine dioxide (ClO²).

Density: Chlorates are solids and sodium chlorate has a density of around 2.49 g/cm³.

Chemical Properties

Chlorates are strong oxidizing agents and their chemical properties are mainly defined by the fact that they release oxygen when decomposed. The main properties include;

Decomposition Reaction: Chlorates are decomposed on heating producing oxygen gas and the corresponding chloride. This property is in use in various applications to produce oxygen.

Sodium chlorate decomposition reaction:

This reaction gives sodium chloride and oxygen gas

Potassium chlorate decomposition reaction:

This reaction also liberates oxygen that is used to facilitate combustion and is involved in explosive reactions.

Oxidising agent:

Chlorates are strong oxidizing agents. They react with a large number of reductants. For example, potassium chlorate reacts with sulfur to form potassium sulfate and other products of sulfur:

The oxygen generated in this reaction also contributes to combustion and is applied in explosive reactions.

Reaction with Acid: Chlorates react with acids to produce chlorine dioxide (ClO₂), a toxic and very reactive gas:

Chlorine dioxide is a very strong oxidizing agent, and often its formation is controlled since it is unstable.

Reaction with Hydrogen Peroxide: In the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), chlorates can produce oxygen gas:

Application

Preparation of Oxygen: Sodium chlorate and potassium chlorate are often used for the preparation of oxygen gas in laboratories and industrial applications. The thermal decomposition of chlorates is a reliable source of oxygen.

Bleaching Agent: Chlorates, especially sodium chlorate, are used as bleaching agents in the paper and pulp industry to bleach wood pulp. Bleaching agents that are based on chlorates break lignin down in wood so that paper becomes easier to process and bleach.

Preparing explosives and pyrotechnics: Chlorates are included in the composition of several explosives and pyrotechnics. Potassium chlorate is used in making firework, matches, and explosive because it is an oxidizing agent that release oxygen in combustion reactions.

Herbicides: Sodium chlorate is a herbicide applied in certain types of agricultural activities. This agent is potent in the management of weeds because it causes oxidative power that disables normal working of the plant cells.

Chemical Synthesis: chlorates are used for the synthesis of other chemicals, chlorine dioxide (ClO2) which finds application in treatment and disinfection processes.

Conclusion

There are various important industrial and commercial applications of chlorates since they are strong oxides. Their property of releasing oxygen during decomposition, their employment as bleaching agents, and being a prime constituent in pyrotechnics and explosives make them valuable in several fields. However, they are very reactive and should be handled carefully. As with most chemical compounds, use should be controlled responsibly so possible hazards can be avoided. It is the understanding of their chemical behavior - decomposition and oxidizing properties, especially that shapes the safe as well as effective application across sectors.

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