Chloroform is a type of chemical compound known as a trihalomethane. While chloroform was once used as an anesthetic during surgery, it is no longer used in medicine due to its negative health effects. Additionally, chloroform was once but is no longer used in fire extinguishers, dry cleaning or fumigation substances.EPA: Chloroform ATSDR: Chloroform
Properties
- Molecular mass: 119.4 g/molOSHA: Chloroform
- Boiling point: 61.2 °COSHA: Chloroform
- Melting point: -63.5 °COSHA: Chloroform
- Color: ColorlessATSDR: Chloroform
- Phase at room temperature: LiquidATSDR: Chloroform
- Odor: NonirritatingATSDR: Chloroform
- Taste: Slightly sweetATSDR: Chloroform
- Very soluble in waterEPA: Chloroform
Pollution Contribution
In the United States, chloroform is primarily produced for the production of HCFC-22, a chemical compound known as a hydrochlorofluorocarbon that is commonly used in air conditioning and refrigeration appliances. However, since hydrochlorofluorocarbons corrode the ozone layer, they are being phased out of products in the United States.EPA: Chloroform
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a doctor for more information on chloroform.
Chloroform Research
- Toxicological Sciences: Carcinogenicity of Chloroform in Drinking Water... (1985)
References
Fast Facts
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Other names
Trichloromethane, methyl trichlorideATSDR: Chloroform
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Difficult to detect in bodyEPA: Chloroform
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Eliminates rapidly from human bodyEPA: Chloroform
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