Hypochlorite is a chemical compound that contains chlorine in its -1 oxidation state. It is commonly found in the form of sodium hypochlorite (NaClO), which is widely used as a disinfectant and bleaching agent. Hypochlorite solutions are effective in killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making them popular for sanitizing surfaces and treating water. In addition to sodium hypochlorite, there are other forms, such as calcium hypochlorite (Ca(ClO)2), which is often used in swimming pools to maintain water quality. Hypochlorite compounds release chlorine when dissolved in water, contributing to their effectiveness in disinfection and oxidation processes.