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Silver(I) chloride

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Identification
Molecular formula
AgCl
CAS number
7783-90-6
IUPAC name
chlorosilver
State
State

At room temperature, silver(I) chloride exists as a solid material. It is insoluble in water but can dissolve in ammonia, with which it forms a complex ion.

Melting point (Celsius)
455.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
728.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
1 550.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
1 823.15
General information
Molecular weight
143.32g/mol
Molar mass
143.3210g/mol
Density
5.5600g/cm3
Appearence

Silver(I) chloride appears as a white crystalline solid under normal conditions. It is well known for its low solubility in water, which is one of its distinctive properties.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Chlorosilver (AgCl)

Chlorosilver, formally known as silver chloride (AgCl), is a fascinating compound when it comes to its solubility properties. Silver chloride is known to be insoluble in water, which poses unique challenges and considerations in various chemical applications.

Key Points About Its Solubility:

  • Water Solubility: AgCl has a very low solubility of approximately 0.89 mg/L in pure water at 25 °C, making it a prime example of a sparingly soluble salt.
  • Effect of Ionic Strength: Its solubility increases in solutions with higher ionic strengths due to the presence of other ions. This is often observed in more concentrated saline environments.
  • Role of Complexing Agents: The presence of complexing agents, such as ammonium hydroxide, can greatly enhance its solubility. It can dissolve in concentrated ammonia water due to the formation of soluble complex ions.
  • Precipitation Considerations: Because of its low solubility, AgCl is often utilized in precipitation reactions and analytical chemistry as a reagent to identify chloride ions.

In summary, while silver chloride (AgCl) demonstrates extremely low solubility in water, the factors influencing its solubility, such as ionic strength and complexing agents, make it a subject of interest in both research and practical applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Chlorosilver

Chlorosilver is a fascinating compound that showcases the interplay between metals and halogens. This compound is composed of silver (Ag) and chlorine (Cl), and it belongs to a class of compounds known as silver halides. Here are some noteworthy points about Chlorosilver:

  • Reactive Properties: Chlorosilver has notable reactivity, particularly with light, which makes it an interesting subject of study in photochemistry. It can undergo photodecomposition, releasing silver and chlorine when exposed to light.
  • Historical Significance: Silver compounds, including Chlorosilver, have played a critical role in the field of photography. Silver halides were the foundation of the early photographic processes, capturing images through light sensitivity.
  • Antimicrobial Qualities: Silver ions are known for their antimicrobial properties, making Chlorosilver a valuable compound in various applications, including wound dressings and water purification systems.
  • Applications in Electronics: Due to its conductivity and reactivity, Chlorosilver has potential applications in electronics, particularly in the field of thin-film technology where silver plays a pivotal role in producing conductive layers.
  • Cultural Impact: Beyond its scientific applications, silver compounds have historical significance in art and culture. Ancient civilizations used silver not only for adornment but also for its antibacterial properties in food preservation.

As a compound, Chlorosilver embodies the richness of chemistry, driving innovation in both historical and modern contexts. Its unique properties are a reminder of the profound impact that chemical compounds can have on technology, health, and culture.

Synonyms
SILVER CHLORIDE
7783-90-6
AgCl
Mark II
Caswell No. 735A
EINECS 232-033-3
UNII-MWB0804EO7
EPA Pesticide Chemical Code 072506
MWB0804EO7
EC 232-033-3
Sanitizer Hand and Skin Care
DTXCID2015251
232-033-3
(agcl)
argentum muriaticum
chebi:30341
dtxsid4035251
silver monochloride
silver(1+) chloride
silver(i) chloride
chlorosilver
Silver chloride, 99.5%
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Chlorure d'argent
cloreto de prata
cloruro de plata
clorruro d'argento
Silver chloride(AgCl)
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AKOS024438107
HY-W019929
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CS-0031738
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Q216918
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