Sodium hypochlorite is commonly called what?

Sodium hypochlorite is commonly referred to as liquid bleach. This is due to its widespread use as a bleaching agent and disinfectant in household cleaning products and water treatment processes. It is an effective oxidizing agent that helps in the removal of stains and bacteria, making it useful for sanitizing surfaces and treating drinking water.

The term "liquid bleach" specifically identifies sodium hypochlorite because it exists in a liquid form and often contains a sodium hypochlorite concentration that varies depending on its intended use. This clear connection is crucial in understanding the applications of sodium hypochlorite in various industries, particularly in hygiene and sanitation.

Other choices: Chlorine gas is a different chemical compound entirely and is used in different capacities, primarily in water treatment as a sterilizing agent, while hydrochloric acid is a strong acid with different applications, unrelated to bleaching or disinfection. Calcium hypochlorite, although also a chlorinating agent, is available in solid form and used in other specific applications such as swimming pool sanitation.