Bleaching Powder, also known as Calcium Hypochlorite [Ca(OCl)₂], is a white or light grayish powder widely used as a disinfectant and bleaching agent. It is commonly used for water purification, sanitization, and whitening fabrics. Bleaching powder releases chlorine when it reacts with water, which kills bacteria and other pathogens. It is stable when dry but decomposes in moist air, releasing a strong chlorine odor. Its main applications include drinking water treatment, household and industrial cleaning, textile bleaching, and as a component in disinfectant formulations.