As predicted by valence shell electron pair repulsion theory, chlorate anions have trigonal pyramidal structures.

Mixtures of chlorate salts with virtually any combustible material (sugar, sawdust, charcoal, organic solvents, metals, etc.)

The reaction of cold aqueous metal hydroxides with chlorine produces the chloride and hypochlorite (oxidation number +1) instead.

[citation needed] A 2010 study has discovered the presence of natural chlorate deposits around the world, with relatively high concentrations found in arid and hyper-arid regions.

It is suspected that chlorate and perchlorate may share a common natural formation mechanism and could be a part of the chlorine biogeochemistry cycle.