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Calcium Chloride

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Identification
Molecular formula
CaCl2
CAS number
10043-52-4
IUPAC name
calcium;dichloride
State
State

Calcium chloride is typically found as a solid at room temperature.

Melting point (Celsius)
772.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
1 045.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
1 935.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
2 208.00
General information
Molecular weight
110.98g/mol
Molar mass
110.9840g/mol
Density
2.1500g/cm3
Appearence

Calcium chloride is typically a white crystalline solid at room temperature. It appears as granules or flakes that are highly soluble in water.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Calcium Dichloride (CaCl2)

Calcium dichloride (CaCl2) is known for its high solubility in water. At room temperature, it can dissolve to a significant extent, demonstrating the following characteristics:

  • Highly Soluble: Calcium dichloride has a solubility of approximately 74.5 g per 100 mL of water at 20°C.
  • Temperature Dependence: Its solubility increases with temperature, which means that heating the solution will facilitate dissolving more of the salt.
  • Hydration: Upon dissolution, CaCl2 dissociates into calcium ions (Ca2+) and chloride ions (Cl−), both of which are stabilized by interaction with water molecules.

Furthermore, the solubility of CaCl2 contributes to its utilization in various applications, including:

  • De-icing agents: Its excellent solubility allows it to effectively lower the freezing point of water.
  • Desiccants: Because it can absorb moisture from the air, it is useful in controlling humidity.
  • Calcium source: In agriculture, it serves as a source of calcium for plants when dissolved in water.

In summary, the impressive solubility of calcium dichloride not only makes it versatile in various fields but also underscores the importance of solubility in the functionality and application of chemical compounds.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Calcium Dichloride (CaCl2)

Calcium dichloride, often referred to simply as CaCl2, is an intriguing compound with a variety of applications and properties that make it noteworthy in both industrial and scientific settings. Here are some fascinating aspects:

  • De-icing Agent: One of the most common uses of calcium dichloride is in its role as a de-icing agent for roads. It effectively lowers the freezing point of water, making it easier to maintain safe driving conditions during winter weather.
  • Food Additive: In the food industry, CaCl2 serves as a food additive, particularly in the production of cheese. It acts as a firming agent, enhancing the texture of certain products.
  • Hydration Properties: Calcium dichloride is highly hygroscopic, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from the environment. This property is utilized in desiccants and moisture control applications.
  • Medical Uses: In medicine, it can be used to treat calcium deficiencies. However, its administration must be carefully managed to avoid complications.
  • Research Applications: Scientists use CaCl2 in various laboratory settings, including as a catalyst in certain chemical reactions and as a reagent in the preparation of other compounds.

As impressive as its applications are, calcium dichloride also calls for careful handling. As with many chemical compounds, safety precautions should be taken to prevent exposure to skin and eyes. Overall, calcium dichloride exemplifies the diverse utility of chemical compounds in both everyday life and specialized fields.


Synonyms
calcium;dichloride
MFCD00010903
Calcium chloride anhydrous, for cell culture
Calcium chloride, ultra dry
Anhydrous calcium chloride
Hydrophilite
Daraccel
Stopit
Calol
Calzina oral
Calmate R
Chrysoxel C 4
U-Ramin MC
Calcium chloride, >=95%
Calcium chloride, >=90.0%
SCHEMBL5381230
Calcium chloride, dried, powder
HY-Y0406E
HY-Y0406H
Calcium chloride, LR, >=98%
Pharmakon1600-01300011
Calcium chloride, anhydrous, porous
NSC759598
PDSP1_000367
PDSP2_000365
AKOS015903883
Calcium chloride, >=75%, for drying
Calcium chloride anhydrous, powder, 97%
Calcium chloride, anhydrous, powder, >=97%
CS-0911066
Calcium chloride, >=75%, suitable for U-tube
Calcium chloride, SAJ first grade, >=95.0%
Calcium chloride, JIS special grade, >=95.0%
Calcium chloride, technical grade, -4-+30 mesh
Calcium chloride, Vetec(TM) reagent grade, 96%
Calcium chloride, desiccant, ACS reagent, >=96.0%
Calcium chloride, anhydrous, granular, <=7.0 mm, >=93.0%
Calcium chloride, anhydrous, free-flowing, Redi-Dri(TM), >=97%
Calcium chloride, anhydrous, powder, 99.99% trace metals basis
Calcium chloride, anhydrous, beads, -10 mesh, >=99.9% trace metals basis
Calcium chloride, anhydrous, beads, -10 mesh, >=99.99% trace metals basis
Calcium chloride, anhydrous, free-flowing, Redi-Dri(TM), ACS reagent, >=96%
14639-81-7
Calcium chloride, anhydrous, BioReagent, suitable for insect cell culture, suitable for plant cell culture, >=96.0%
Calcium standard for AAS, analytical standard, 1.000 g/L Ca+2 in hydrochloric acid, traceable to BAM