Which chemical is found in bleach?

Sodium hypochlorite is the primary chemical found in household bleach and is commonly used as a disinfectant and bleaching agent. It acts as a strong oxidizer, allowing it to effectively kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making it a popular choice for sanitizing surfaces and purifying water.

When sodium hypochlorite is dissolved in water, it releases chlorine, which is responsible for its disinfecting properties. This characteristic is particularly important in water treatment processes, where maintaining water quality and safety is crucial. Its effectiveness and versatility have made sodium hypochlorite a staple in both domestic and industrial applications.

Other substances listed, such as ammonia, trihalomethanes, and chloramines, serve different purposes or originate from different chemical processes. Ammonia is primarily used in cleaning products but is not present in bleach. Trihalomethanes are byproducts typically formed during the chlorination of drinking water, and chloramines are compounds formed when ammonia is added to chlorine to achieve a longer-lasting disinfectant effect. These distinctions clarify why sodium hypochlorite is recognized as the correct answer for the chemical composition of bleach.