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Cadmium chloride

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Identification
Molecular formula
CdCl2
CAS number
10108-64-2
IUPAC name
cadmium(2+);dichloride
State
State

Under standard conditions, cadmium chloride is a solid. It exists in a crystalline form and is known for its hygroscopic nature (ability to absorb moisture).

Melting point (Celsius)
568.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
841.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
960.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
1 233.00
General information
Molecular weight
183.31g/mol
Molar mass
183.3100g/mol
Density
4.0470g/cm3
Appearence

Cadmium chloride appears as a white crystalline solid. It is typically odorless and is known to readily absorb moisture from its surroundings, becoming a hydrated form.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Cadmium(II) Dichloride

Cadmium(II) dichloride, with the chemical formula CdCl2, exhibits intriguing solubility characteristics that are important for various applications. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Water Solubility: CdCl2 is highly soluble in water, which allows it to easily dissociate into cadmium cations (Cd2+) and chloride anions (Cl-). The solubility increases with temperature, making it a useful compound in thermal processes.
  • Solvent Interaction: The presence of polar solvents enhances solubility due to hydrophilic interactions. An important note is that the compound's solubility can substantially change in different solvent systems.
  • Environmental Considerations: Given its solubility, cadmium(II) dichloride can easily leach into water systems, raising concerns about toxicity and environmental impact. As such, it is considered hazardous and necessitates careful handling.

In summary, while cadmium(II) dichloride's solubility in water makes it valuable for various industrial applications, it also poses potential risks that require vigilant management. As the saying goes, "With great solubility comes great responsibility!"

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Cadmium(II) Dichloride

Cadmium(II) dichloride, commonly referred to as cadmium chloride, is a fascinating compound that has both historical significance and modern applications. Here are some intriguing aspects:

  • Industrial Applications: Cadmium(II) dichloride is used in various industrial processes, including the production of pigments, electroplating, and as a precursor for other cadmium compounds.
  • Biochemical Roles: Despite its toxic nature, cadmium ions can interact with biological systems. Some studies have suggested that they may play roles in cellular signaling pathways, although the potential harmful effects often overshadow these benefits.
  • Environmental Impact: The compound is considered a pollutant, particularly due to cadmium's toxic effects on ecosystems and human health. It has been a subject of stringent regulations to control its release into the environment.
  • Color Indicators: Cadmium chloride is often used as a reagent in chemical analyses and can produce vivid colors in certain reactions, making it valuable for educational demonstrations in chemistry.
  • Historical Significance: As a compound learn extensively in the early studies of the periodic table elements, cadmium's discovery in the 19th century highlighted the advancement of inorganic chemistry.

In conclusion, while cadmium(II) dichloride is a compound fraught with challenges, its unique properties and applications in various fields continue to be a topic of interest among scientists and researchers today. As with many chemical compounds, understanding the balance between its utility and its potential for harm is crucial for responsible usage and environmental stewardship.

Synonyms
CADMIUM CHLORIDE, DIHYDRATE
CAS-10108-64-2
Cadmium chloride (CdCl)
cadmium(II)chloride
Cadmium II chloride
cadmium(2+);dichloride
CADMIUM CHLORIDE [MI]
CADMIUM CHLORIDE [HSDB]
CADMIUM MURIATICUM [HPUS]
CADMIUM CHLORIDE [WHO-DD]
Tox21_202229
Tox21_303000
AKOS024256118
NCGC00090932-01
NCGC00256542-01
NCGC00259778-01
13966-86-4
NS00076352
Cadmium chloride, anhydrous, ACS Reagent, powder
Q411840