Chlorine dioxide is a chemical compound with the formula ClO₂. It is a yellowish-green gas at room temperature and is commonly used as a disinfectant and bleaching agent. Chlorine dioxide is effective in killing bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens, making it useful in water treatment and sanitation processes. In addition to its disinfectant properties, chlorine dioxide is also used in various industrial applications, such as paper bleaching and food processing. It is important to handle chlorine dioxide with care, as it can be hazardous in high concentrations and requires proper safety measures during use.