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Calcium chloride dihydrate

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Identification
Molecular formula
CaCl2·2H2O
CAS number
10035-04-8
IUPAC name
calcium;dichloride;dihydrate
State
State

At room temperature, calcium chloride dihydrate is in a solid state. It remains stable under standard temperature and pressure conditions, tending to remain solid unless it absorbs significant moisture to become deliquescent.

Melting point (Celsius)
176.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
449.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
1 600.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
1 873.00
General information
Molecular weight
147.01g/mol
Molar mass
147.0140g/mol
Density
1.8500g/cm3
Appearence

Calcium chloride dihydrate appears as white crystalline solid. The crystals are typically small, and the substance is highly hygroscopic, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from the environment. This characteristic makes it sticky and often necessitates storage in tightly sealed containers to prevent it from becoming a liquid through water absorption.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Calcium Dichloride Dihydrate (CaCl2·2H2O)

Calcium dichloride dihydrate is known for its remarkable solubility in water, making it a highly accessible compound in various applications. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • High Solubility: CaCl2·2H2O readily dissolves in water, with a solubility of approximately 74.5 g per 100 mL at room temperature.
  • Temperature Dependency: Its solubility increases significantly with rising temperatures, allowing for more effective use in various processes that require a concentrated solution.
  • Hydration Property: Upon dissolution, the dihydrate releases its water of crystallization, contributing to the formation of a stable aqueous solution.
  • Affect on Ionic Strength: The presence of calcium and chloride ions in solution enhances the ionic strength, making it beneficial in chemical reactions and processes.

Due to these properties, calcium dichloride dihydrate is frequently used in de-icing roads, in cooling baths, and as a drying agent. Its ability to dissolve readily not only underscores its versatility but also emphasizes its importance in environmental and industrial chemistry.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Calcium Dichloride Dihydrate

Calcium dichloride dihydrate, commonly abbreviated as CaCl2·2H2O, is a fascinating compound with a variety of applications and properties that make it significant both in industrial settings and in everyday life. Here are some intriguing insights:

  • Hydrating Hero: As a dihydrate, this compound contains two water molecules for every calcium dichloride unit. This not only affects its crystal structure but also its behavior in various environments, making it an excellent candidate for moisture control.
  • Desiccant Properties: Calcium dichloride is renowned for its ability to absorb moisture from the air. This makes it a popular choice in dehumidifying applications, particularly in basements and industrial spaces.
  • Food Industry Use: Surprisingly, this compound finds its role in food preservation! It is sometimes used in the food industry to maintain the firmness of vegetables and as a food additive.
  • Road Safety: Calcium dichloride is also employed in road treatments to prevent ice formation. By lowering the freezing point of water, it helps maintain safer travel conditions during winter months.
  • Chemical Reactions: In the lab, it serves as a versatile reagent. It can participate in various reactions, including the production of calcium carbonate when combined with carbon dioxide.

In summary, calcium dichloride dihydrate is much more than just a simple chemical compound; its multifaceted uses in various industries and its fascinating properties reveal the intricate relationships between chemistry and everyday life. As many scientists and students alike can testify, its presence and impact stretch far beyond the laboratory bench!

Synonyms
calcium;dichloride;dihydrate
MFCD00149613
Cal Plus
Conclyte-Ca (TN)
Calcium chloride (USP)
UNII-M4I0D6VV5M
Calcium chloride [USP:JAN]
SCHEMBL22532692
Calcium chloride dihydrate, p.a.
Calcium chloride hydrate (JP17)
AKOS024457459
CALCIUM CHLORIDE DIHYDRATE, ACS
Calcium chloride dihydrate, AR, >=98%
Calcium chloride dihydrate, LR, >=97%
PD079403
Calcium chloride dihydrate, BioXtra, >=99.0%
D02256
Calcium chloride dihydrate, ACS reagent, >=99%
Calcium chloride dihydrate, USP, 99.0-107.0%
Calcium chloride, meets USP testing specifications
Calcium chloride dihydrate, BioUltra, >=99.5% (KT)
Calcium chloride dihydrate, ReagentPlus(R), >=99.0%
Calcium chloride dihydrate, tested according to Ph.Eur.
Calcium chloride dihydrate, for molecular biology, >=99%
Calcium chloride dihydrate, Vetec(TM) reagent grade, 99%
Calcium chloride dihydrate, JIS special grade, 99.0-103.0%
Calcium chloride dihydrate, SAJ first grade, 98.0-103.0%
Calcium chloride dihydrate, BioUltra, for molecular biology, >=99.5% (KT)
Calcium chloride, United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Reference Standard
Calciumchlorid-Dihydrat, meets the analytical specifications of Ph. Eur.
Calcium chloride dihydrate, puriss. p.a., ACS reagent, reag. Ph. Eur., >=99%
Calcium chloride dihydrate, BioReagent, suitable for cell culture, suitable for insect cell culture, suitable for plant cell culture, >=99.0%
Calcium chloride dihydrate, puriss., meets analytical specification of Ph. Eur., USP, FCC, E509, 99-103%, <=0.0001% Al
Calcium chloride dihydrate, suitable for cell culture, suitable for insect cell culture, suitable for plant cell culture, >=98%