chlorine (Cl), chemical element of the periodic

table. Chlorine is a toxic, corrosive, greenish

yellow gas that is irritating to the eyes and to
the respiratory system. Chlorine is not ductile
and malleable. This is because chlorine is a
nonmetal and non-metals are brittle.This means
they shatter when a force is applied to them.

Its most important use is as a bleach in the

manufacture of paper and cloth, but it is also
used to make pesticides (insect killers), rubber,
and solvents. Chlorine is used in drinking water
and swimming pool water to kill harmful
bacteria.

-How Can Be Chlorine

Harmful?
Breathing high levels of chlorine causes fluid
build-up in the lungs, a condition known as
pulmonary edema. The development of
pulmonary edema may be delayed for several
hours after exposure to chlorine. Contact with
compressed liquid chlorine may cause frostbite
of the skin and eyes.

Signs Of Chlorine Exposure

-

• Blurred vision
• Burning pain, redness, and blisters on the
skin if exposed to gas. Skin injuries similar to
frostbite can occur if it is exposed to liquid
chlorine
• Burning sensation in the nose, throat, and
eyes
• Coughing
• Chest tightness
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
• Fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema) that
may be delayed for a few hours.
 • Nausea and vomiting
• Watery eyes
• Wheezing

-How To Be Treated
If you get chlorine on your skin, immediately
wash it with soap and water. If you get it in your
eyes, flush them with running water for at least
15 minutes — take out contact lenses first if
present. Remove any clothes that were on the
areas of the body exposed to chlorine.