Re: Why does chlorine make my skin feel soapy?

Bleach is a solution of sodium hypochlorite in a somewhat basic medium. 
The base is what makes your hands feel soapy, not the chlorine (which is 
not present as chlorine gas in any case -- if it were, you wouldn't be here 
to ask your question!)

Incidentally, never combine bleach with acid-based cleaning agents (I gather
that toilet-bowl cleaner is acid-based) because the reaction will form 
chlorine gas!

                                                  Dan Berger
                                                  MadSci Administrator