Chemistry and Stability
- Sodium hypochlorite is an alkaline inorganic chemical compound with the chemical formula NaOCl.
- Its molar mass is 74.442 g/mol.
- It appears as a greenish-yellow solid in its pentahydrate form.
- Sodium hypochlorite is highly unstable in its anhydrous form and decomposes explosively.
- The decomposition is accelerated by carbon dioxide.
- It can be obtained as a stable crystalline pentahydrate and is stable when refrigerated.
- Sodium hypochlorite solutions can lose strength over time.

Equilibria and Decomposition
- Sodium hypochlorite is more stable in dilute solutions containing solvated Na and OCl ions.
- The density of the solution varies with concentration.
- Solutions are fairly stable at pH 11-12.
- Sodium hypochlorite can disproportionate to chloride and chlorate under certain conditions.
- This reaction occurs at high temperatures, forming sodium chlorate and sodium chloride.
- An alternative decomposition of hypochlorite produces oxygen instead of chlorate.
- The decomposition reactions are maximised at pH around 6.

Production Methods
- Reaction of sodium carbonate with chlorinated lime is a common method used in the past.
- Electrolysis of brine is another method that involves the electrolysis of brine to produce sodium hydroxide and chlorine gas, which are then mixed to form sodium hypochlorite.
- Production of solid stable dihydrate NaOCl·2H2O involves reacting chloride-free solution of hypochlorous acid with sodium hydroxide and removing sodium chloride by filtration.
- Concentrated slurries of the pentahydrate NaClO·5H2O can be produced using a similar principle.
- Sodium hypochlorite is packaged and sold under various trade names.

Uses and Applications
- Sodium hypochlorite is commonly used as a disinfectant and bleach.
- It is used in water treatment to kill bacteria and viruses.
- It can be used for stain removal and deodorizing.
- Sodium hypochlorite is used in the production of paper and textiles.
- It is also used in the pharmaceutical and food industries.

Environmental Impact and Safety
- Sodium hypochlorite has limited environmental impact as the hypochlorite ion degrades rapidly before being absorbed by living beings.
- Concerns arise from the formation of persistent chlorinated organic compounds, including known carcinogens, which can enter the food chain.
- Sodium hypochlorite should be handled with care as it can cause skin and eye irritation.
- It should not be mixed with other chemicals, especially acids, as it can release toxic gases.
- Proper ventilation and personal protective equipment should be used when handling sodium hypochlorite.