Perchlorates are the
salts derived from
perchloric acid—in particular when referencing the
polyatomic anions found in solution, perchlorate is often written with the formula ClO
4-. Though produced by natural processes, the preponderance of perchlorates on Earth are produced commercially. Perchlorate salts are mainly used for
propellants, exploiting properties as powerful
oxidizing agents. Perchlorate contamination in the environment has been extensively studied as it has effects on human health. Perchlorate has been linked to its negative influence on the
thyroid gland.