Chloroform is an organic compound with the formula CHCl₃. It’s a colorless, dense liquid with a sweet odor. While once widely used as an anesthetic and solvent, its use has declined due to its toxicity and carcinogenic properties.

Properties of Chloroform

Physical Properties:
- Colorless liquid
- Sweet odor
- Dense liquid (heavier than water)
- Volatile
Chemical Properties:
- Good solvent for many organic compounds
- Reacts with strong bases to form dichlorocarbene
- Decomposes in sunlight to form phosgene, a toxic gas

Historical Uses of Chloroform

Anesthesia: Chloroform was once widely used as a general anesthetic in surgeries. However, its use was discontinued due to its potential for causing heart arrhythmias and liver damage.
Solvent: Chloroform was used as a solvent in various industrial processes, including the production of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and pesticides.