Perchlorate

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Perchlorate

Perchlorate (pronunciation: per-KLOR-ate) is a chemical compound containing the perchlorate ion, ClO4−. It is a highly reactive and unstable ion that is often associated with explosive materials and rocket propellants.

Etymology

The term "perchlorate" is derived from the Latin word "per" meaning "through" or "completely", and "chloros", the Greek word for "green". This refers to the greenish color of chlorine gas, from which perchlorate is derived.

Chemistry

Perchlorate is a polyatomic ion with the chemical formula ClO4−. It is formed by the combination of one chlorine atom and four oxygen atoms. Perchlorate is the anion obtained by removal of a proton from perchloric acid, a strong acid that is often used in laboratories.

Health Effects

Exposure to perchlorate can have significant health effects, particularly on the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland uses iodine to produce thyroid hormones, but perchlorate can interfere with this process by blocking the uptake of iodine. This can lead to hypothyroidism and other thyroid-related health problems.

Related Terms

  • Chlorate: A chemical compound that contains the chlorate ion, ClO3−.
  • Chlorine: A chemical element with the symbol Cl and atomic number 17.
  • Hypothyroidism: A condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones.
  • Thyroid gland: A large ductless gland in the neck that secretes hormones regulating growth and development through the rate of metabolism.

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