The chemical species ClO⁻, known as hypochlorite, is an anion formed from chlorine and oxygen. It carries a negative charge and is commonly found in various chemical compounds, including sodium hypochlorite, which is widely used as a disinfectant and bleach. Hypochlorite plays a significant role in water treatment and sanitation processes. In terms of structure, ClO⁻ consists of one chlorine atom covalently bonded to one oxygen atom. The chlorine atom has a formal oxidation state of +1, while the oxygen atom has a -2 oxidation state, resulting in the overall negative charge. Hypochlorite is also a key component in the production of chlorine dioxide, a powerful oxidizing agent used in various industrial applications.