Skip to main content

Cobalt(II) chloride

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
CoCl2
CAS number
7646-79-9
IUPAC name
dichlorocobalt
State
State

At room temperature, cobalt(II) chloride typically exists as a solid. The anhydrous form is blue, indicating absence of water, while the more common form at room temperature, the hexahydrate, is red or pink due to water content.

Melting point (Celsius)
735.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
1 008.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
1 049.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
1 322.00
General information
Molecular weight
129.84g/mol
Molar mass
129.8390g/mol
Density
3.3560g/cm3
Appearence

Cobalt(II) chloride appears as blue crystals in its anhydrous form and as red crystalline solid in its hexahydrate form. The hexahydrate, CoCl2•6H2O, has a deep rose color while the anhydrous form turns blue when heated.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Dichlorocobalt

Dichlorocobalt, typically represented with the chemical formula CoCl2, is a compound that demonstrates notable solubility characteristics, particularly in water. Understanding its solubility helps in various applications within the chemical and industrial sectors.

Solubility Insights:

  • Polar Nature: The compound is polar, allowing it to readily dissolve in polar solvents like water.
  • Concentration: When proceeding to dissolve CoCl2 in water, it is observed that it is quite soluble, typically achieving solubility levels of up to 54 g/L at room temperature.
  • Hydration: Upon dissolution, the salt dissociates into its ions, Co2+ and Cl-, which interact favorably with water molecules, promoting a stable solution.

However, it is worth noting that factors like temperature, purity, and the presence of other ions in solution can affect its solubility. For example, when heated, the solubility of dichlorocobalt tends to increase, a characteristic beneficial for various chemical processes.

Conclusion:

In summary, the solubility of dichlorocobalt in water is a key feature that underscores its utility in chemical reactions and applications. Its ability to form stable aqueous solutions plays a pivotal role in its reactivity and usage in scientific and industrial practices.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Dichlorocobalt

Dichlorocobalt, a fascinating compound, is known for its unique properties and significant applications. Here are some intriguing insights about this chemical:

  • Structure: Dichlorocobalt consists of a cobalt atom bonded to two chlorine atoms, showcasing the versatile coordination chemistry of cobalt.
  • Color Change: One of the most remarkable characteristics of dichlorocobalt is its ability to change color depending on its hydration state. When hydrated, it appears in a vibrant pink hue, but when dehydrated, it takes on a more subdued blue color.
  • Applications: This compound finds its significance in various fields, including:
    • Catalysis in chemical reactions, enhancing the efficiency of certain processes
    • In the production of pigments used in paint and ceramics
  • Biological Relevance: Cobalt is an essential trace element in human nutrition, particularly in the form of Vitamin B12, which is vital for the proper functioning of the nervous system and the production of red blood cells.
  • Historical Significance: The study of cobalt and its compounds has a rich history, dating back to the 18th century when Swedish chemist Georg Brandt first isolated the element from copper ores.

Whether in laboratories, industry, or biology, dichlorocobalt is a compound that highlights the intricate relationship between chemical structure, properties, and practical applications. Its dual nature and relevance make it a captivating subject for both students and seasoned chemists alike.

Synonyms
7646-79-9
Cobalt chloride (CoCl2)
MFCD00010938
Cobalt(II) chloride anhydrous
Cobalt(II) chloride, ultra dry
NSC 51149;
Cl2Co
Cobalt Chloride; Cobalt Dichloride; Cobalt Dichloride (CoCl2); Cobalt(2+) Chloride;
Cobalt(II) Chloride; Cobaltous Chloride; Cobaltous Dichloride; Dichlorocobalt;
cobalt(II)-chloride
Curator_000013
Cobalt chloride anhydrous
Cobalt(ii)chloride hydrate
WLN: CO G2
cobalt - (II) - chloride
Cobalt(II) chloride, 97%
NSC51149
AKOS015833210
DB-254262
DS-002654
Cobalt(II) chloride, for synthesis, 98.0%
Cobalt(II) chloride, Vetec(TM) reagent grade
Q407849
BRD-K90864987-001-01-0
Cobalt(II) chloride, purum p.a., anhydrous, >=98.0% (KT)
Cobalt(II) chloride, anhydrous, beads, -10 mesh, 99.9% trace metals basis
Cobalt(II) chloride, anhydrous, beads, -10 mesh, 99.999% trace metals basis