Sodium chlorate, also known as sodium hypochlorite or chlorine bleach, is a white crystalline solid with a mildly bitter taste and a strong odor of chlorine. It is highly soluble in water and has a blue-greenish color in aqueous solution. Sodium chlorate is used as a disinfectant, bleaching agent, and deodorant. It is also used in the production of chlorine gas for industrial purposes. It can be a skin irritant and, if ingested or inhaled, can cause potentially serious medical conditions.