An organochloride, organochlorine compound, chlorocarbon, chlorinated hydrocarbon, is an organic compound containing at least one covalently bonded atom of chlorine as the dominant functionality, of which chloroalkane and chlorinated solvent as examples are major members. Their wide structural variety and divergent chemical properties lead to a broad range of names and applications. Many such compounds are controversial because of the effects of these compounds on the environment and on human and animal health.