The act of whitening or removing color, often achieved through chemical agents like sodium hypochlorite, is a common process with various applications. Consider the removal of stains from fabric, the lightening of hair color, or the disinfection of surfaces. This process can also refer to the removal of color from natural elements like coral or wood due to environmental stressors.
Historically, sun-bleaching was a widely used method for lightening textiles. Modern chemical methods offer faster and more controlled results, revolutionizing industries from textiles and paper production to sanitation and hygiene. The controlled application of these techniques allows for precise color alteration and contributes significantly to maintaining clean and healthy environments.