Question

Why is chloroform stored in dark coloured air tight bottles?

Hint:

Use the valence bond theory to determine geometry from hybridisation: - \(sp^3\): tetrahedral, - \(dsp^2\): square planar, - \(d^2sp^3\)/\(sp^3d^2\): octahedral. For low/high spin, check whether the ligand is strong or weak field.

Answer 1

Step 1: Chloroform (\ch{CHCl3}) can oxidize in the presence of air and light to form phosgene (\ch{COCl2}), which is highly toxic. Step 2: To avoid this photochemical reaction, chloroform is stored in:
- Dark coloured bottles to block light, - Air-tight containers to prevent oxygen exposure. Conclusion: This prevents degradation and ensures safe handling and storage of chloroform.