Bleaching powder is produced by the reaction of chlorine gas with dry slaked lime (calcium hydroxide). The chemical reaction for the manufacture of bleaching powder is:
\[
Ca(OH)_2 + Cl_2 \rightarrow Ca(OCl)_2 + H_2O
\]
This reaction produces calcium oxychloride (bleaching powder) along with water.
Applications of Bleaching Powder:
1. Disinfection of Drinking Water:
Bleaching powder is commonly used to disinfect drinking water by killing harmful bacteria and other pathogens. It helps purify water, making it safe for consumption.
\[
Ca(OCl)_2 + H_2O \rightarrow Ca(OH)_2 + Cl_2
\]
2. Bleaching Agent in Textile and Paper Industry:
Bleaching powder is used as a bleaching agent in the textile and paper industries. It helps in the removal of color from fabrics and paper, making them white and clean.