Question

What happen when chloroform is exposed to atmospheric air

Answer 1

Answer:

When Chloroform is exposed to air, it undergoes oxidation releasing a toxic gas that is Phosgene gas and Hydrochloric acid. Reaction of oxidation of chloroform is: As chloroform toxic gas when it is exposed to air and sunlight, therefore it is kept in dark bottles to prevent any oxidation process.

Answer 2

Answer:

Chloroform evaporates very quickly when exposed to air. Chloroform also dissolves easily in water, but doesn't stick to the soil very well. The breakdown products in air includes phosgene, which is more toxic than chloroform and hydrogen chloride which is also toxic. Some chloroform may break down in soil.