Chlorinated compounds are chemical substances that contain chlorine atoms bonded to carbon. They are commonly used in various applications, including solvents, pesticides, and disinfectants. Some well-known examples include chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which were once used in refrigeration and aerosol sprays, and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), a pesticide.
While chlorinated compounds can be effective in their uses, they can also pose environmental and health risks. Some of these compounds are persistent in the environment and can accumulate in living organisms, leading to potential toxicity. Regulatory measures are often implemented to manage their use and minimize harmful effects.