Perchlorate Facts for Kids

A perchlorate is a special kind of chemical compound that contains a tiny group of atoms called the perchlorate ion, which is written as ClO−
4. Most perchlorates are salts that are made by companies.

They are mainly used in things like propellants, which are used to power rockets. This is because perchlorates are strong oxidizing agents, meaning they can help other substances burn. They are also used to control static electricity in food packaging.

Scientists in the U.S. have studied how perchlorate can get into food, water, and the environment. This is important because perchlorate can be harmful to human health. It can reduce the amount of hormones produced by the thyroid gland, which is a small gland in your neck that helps control how your body uses energy.

Most perchlorates are colorless solids. This means they look like clear or white crystals. They can usually dissolve easily in water. Four types of perchlorates are used a lot in industries: ammonium perchlorate (NH₄ClO₄), perchloric acid (HClO₄), potassium perchlorate (KClO₄), and sodium perchlorate (NaClO₄). The perchlorate ion is formed when perchloric acid or its salts dissolve in water.

What Perchlorates Are Used For
- Powering Rockets and More
- Controlling Static Electricity
How Perchlorates Affect Your Health
- The Thyroid Gland
- Perchlorate's Impact
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What Perchlorates Are Used For

Perchlorates have several important uses because of their unique chemical properties.

Powering Rockets and More

One of the main uses for perchlorates is in propellants. These are substances that create a lot of force when they burn, pushing things like rockets into space. Ammonium perchlorate is a common ingredient in solid rocket fuel.

Controlling Static Electricity

Perchlorates can also help control static electricity. You might have experienced static electricity when your hair stands up or when you get a small shock. In food packaging, perchlorates can be used to prevent static buildup, which can be helpful for keeping food fresh and safe.

How Perchlorates Affect Your Health

Scientists have found that perchlorate can affect human health, especially the thyroid gland.

The Thyroid Gland

Your thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in your neck. It makes hormones that control many important body functions, like how fast your heart beats and how your body uses energy.

Perchlorate's Impact

When perchlorate enters your body, it can interfere with how your thyroid gland takes in iodine. Iodine is a key ingredient the thyroid needs to make its hormones. If the thyroid can't get enough iodine, it might not produce enough hormones. This can lead to health problems, especially for babies and young children, whose brains and bodies are still developing. Because of these concerns, scientists continue to study perchlorate and its effects on the environment and human health.