Chloroform CHCl3 | Formula, Structure, Properties, Uses

Chloroform is a trichloromethane derivative that is colorless, volatile and has an ether-like odour. It was once employed as an inhalation anesthetic during surgery, but it is now mostly utilized in the industry as a solvent and in the manufacturing of refrigerant freon.

Let’s learn about Chloroform in detail, including its formula, structure, properties and uses.

What is Chloroform?

Chloroform is a colourless, volatile liquid with a sweet odour. It is a powerful anesthetic and sedative agent.

Chloroform Formula

The chemical formula for chloroform is CHCl₃. Its IUPAC name is Trichloromethane.

Other names are Methane trichloride, Methyl trichloride, Methenyl trichloride, and Methenyl chloride.

Chloroform Structure- CHCl₃

Chloroform consists of 1 carbon atom, 1 Hydrogen atom, and 3 Chlorine atoms. It is prepared from Methane (CH₄), 3 hydrogen atoms in Methane are replaced by Chlorine atoms. It is a powerful anesthetic and sedative agent.

Since the chemical formula is CHCl₃, its structure is drawn as follows:

Structure of Chloroform

Chloroform Preparation

Chloroform is prepared by heating a mixture of chlorine and Methane or Chloromethane as, 

CH₄ + Cl₂    ⇢    CH₃Cl + HCl

CH₃Cl + Cl₂ ⇢     CH₂ Cl₂ + HCl

Properties of Chloroform

Physical Properties of Chloroform

Property	Chloroform
Physical State	Colorless liquid
Odor	Pleasant ethereal odor
Density	-20°C: 1.564 g/cm³, 25°C: 1.489 g/cm³
Melting Point	-63.5°C (-82.3°F)
Boiling Point	61.15°C (142.07°F); decomposes at 450°C
Solubility	Soluble in benzene; miscible in alcohol and diethyl ether
Refractive Index	1.4459 at 20°C
Molar Mass	119.37 g/mol
Molecular Shape	Tetrahedral

Chemical Properties of Chloroform

Chloroform reacts with sodium hydroxide and forms sodium acetate, sodium chloride, and water.

CHCl₃ + 4 NaOH  ⇢   NaOOCH + 3 NaCl + 2 H₂O

On oxidation of chloroform gives phosgene and hydrochloric acid.

2 CHCl₃ + O₂ ⇢   2 COCl₂ + 2 HCl

Uses of Chloroform

Here are some real-life applications of Chloroform:

• Iodine, alkaloids, lipids, and other compounds are dissolved in trichloromethane.
• Chloroform is primarily utilized in the production of the R-22 Freon refrigerant. R-22 has been phased out as a refrigerant in industrialized nations due to global warming, although it remains in high demand in underdeveloped countries due to its ease of availability and manufacture.
• Since its effects were recognized, it has been utilized as a common anesthetic during medical procedures. Due to its anesthetic properties, even criminals utilize this substance to knock out their victims.
• After the poisonous nature of this substance was identified, as well as its adverse effects on the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system, it was replaced as an anesthetic by safer alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions on Chloroform

What is Chloroform Formula?

The chemical formula for chloroform is CHCl₃.

What is the IUPAC or Chemical Name of Chloroform?

The IUPAC name of chloroform is Trichloromethane.

What are the uses of Chloroform?

Here are some uses of Chloroform:

• Historically used as an anesthetic in medical procedures.
• Primarily employed as a solvent in laboratory settings and industries.
• Used for extraction, cleaning, and manufacturing of chemicals.
• Occasionally utilized in pharmaceutical production.
• Acts as a precursor in the synthesis of other compounds.

What is the vapour pressure of chloroform and dichloromethane?

The vapor pressure of chloroform (CHCl₃) at 20°C (68°F) is approximately 160 mmHg.

The vapor pressure of dichloromethane (CH₂Cl₂) at 20°C (68°F) is approximately 349 mmHg.

What causes people to go unconscious when exposed to chloroform?

By interacting with the primary function of intercellular protein synthesis, chloroform can effectively render a human unconscious. Doctors use a cotton mask with a continuous drip of chloroform (or occasionally ether) on it. Furthermore, a wireframe is placed over the nose and mouth to knock someone unconscious with chloroform.

What are the Effects of Chloroform on Human Body?

Chloroform’s effects on the human body are obvious. Shortness of breath and irritation of the nose and throat are some of the local symptoms of chloroform inhalation. Acute inhalation of this substance can cause systemic symptoms such as agitation, nausea, and vomiting, as well as ataxia, dizziness, and sleepiness.

How can one avoid inhaling chloroform?

Chloroform is used by medical professionals and various other sectors. As a result, such individuals must guarantee that everyone else is aware of their work with chloroform. Avoid inhalation and execute all activities in a certified chemical fume hood or other appropriate ventilated enclosure throughout the job; also, avoid contact with it.