Question:

Chloroform in the presence of light is slowly oxidized by air to form

Show Hint

Chloroform \((CHCl_3)\) is stored in dark bottles containing about 1% ethanol because sunlight and oxygen convert it into poisonous phosgene \((COCl_2)\).
Updated On: Jun 18, 2026
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Recall the oxidation of chloroform.
Chloroform \((CHCl_3)\) undergoes slow oxidation in the presence of atmospheric oxygen and sunlight.
The reaction is \[ 2CHCl_3 + O_2 \xrightarrow{\text{light}} 2COCl_2 + 2HCl \]

Step 2: Identify the product formed.

The compound \[ COCl_2 \] is known as phosgene.
Phosgene is a highly poisonous gas.

Step 3: Explain the practical significance.

Since chloroform slowly produces toxic phosgene on exposure to air and light, it is stored in dark-colored bottles.
A small amount of ethanol is usually added to destroy any phosgene formed during storage.
\[ COCl_2 + C_2H_5OH \rightarrow \text{harmless products} \]

Step 4: Final conclusion.

Therefore, chloroform is oxidized by air in the presence of light to form \[ \boxed{COCl_2} \] which is phosgene.
Hence, the correct option is (1).
Was this answer helpful?
0
0