Final answer:
In determining the name of HClO, recognizing the molecular structure is key, and HClO is named hypochlorous acid, as it is the base oxyacid for chlorine with the prefix 'hypo-' and the suffix '-ous'.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the case of HClO, it is crucial to recognize the molecular structure as represented by the formula in order to determine its name. This molecule is known as hypochlorous acid. The lack of additional oxygen atoms compared to other acids like HClO2 (chlorous acid), HClO3 (chloric acid), or HClO4 (perchloric acid) indicates that it is the base oxyacid for chlorine and therefore gets the prefix 'hypo-' and the suffix '-ous'. When identifying the acid name from the formula, take note of the halogen and the number of oxygen atoms present to apply the correct naming conventions.