Question

Write the uses of carbon tetrachloride and chloroform.

Hint:

Carbon tetrachloride and chloroform are useful industrial solvents but both are toxic to health. Hence, their use has been restricted or replaced by safer alternatives.

Answer 1

Uses of Carbon Tetrachloride (CCl$_4$):
\begin{itemize} \item Used as a cleaning agent for degreasing metals and machinery.
\item Acts as a solvent for oils, fats, and varnishes.
\item Earlier used in fire extinguishers (though avoided now due to toxicity).
\item Plays a role in the manufacture of refrigerants and propellants.
\end{itemize} Uses of Chloroform (CHCl$_3$):
\begin{itemize} \item Widely used as a solvent in laboratories and industries.
\item Employed in the preparation of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).
\item Historically used as an anesthetic, though not common now due to harmful effects.
\item Helps in extraction and purification of alkaloids and other organic compounds.
\end{itemize}