Perchlorate

Ion, and compounds containing the ion

A perchlorate is a chemical compound used mainly in making rocket fuel and fireworks, as well as some other industrial uses. In many countries it is used to treat hyperthyroidism, but (mainly because of its effect on the thyroid gland) it is an environmental toxin which endangers human health when it contaminates food and water. Perchlorates contain the perchlorate ion, ClO−4, the conjugate base of perchloric acid (ionic perchlorate).

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