Sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) is a compound with strong oxidizing properties. It is widely used in areas such as disinfection, bleaching, and water purification. It is usually found in solution form, and the common trade name is bleach or household bleach.

1. Disinfection and sterilization: Sodium hypochlorite has strong oxidizing properties and can kill bacteria, viruses and fungi, so it is often used in disinfectants. It is used in drinking water treatment, sewage treatment, swimming pool water treatment, disinfection of hospitals and home environments.

2. Bleaching: In industries such as textiles, papermaking, and laundry, sodium hypochlorite is used as a bleaching agent to remove pigments from materials and make clothes and paper whiter.

3. Water purification: Sodium hypochlorite is used for water purification, which can remove organic matter and microorganisms in the water and ensure the safety of water quality.

4. Household cleaning: Sodium hypochlorite is one of the main ingredients in household bleach and is used to clean and disinfect kitchens, bathrooms, floors, and other surfaces.

5. Industrial use: In petroleum processing, chemical, food processing and other industries, sodium hypochlorite is used for cleaning and disinfection of pipelines and equipment.

6. Agriculture: Sodium hypochlorite is also sometimes used in the treatment of agricultural irrigation water to control the spread of pathogens.

7. Waste disposal: In the waste treatment process, sodium hypochlorite can be used to reduce the bacterial content of the waste, control the foul odor and reduce environmental pollution.

8. Disinfection in emergency situations: In natural disasters or emergencies, sodium hypochlorite is often used to clean and disinfect contaminated water sources and surfaces.