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Silicon tetrachloride

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Identification
Molecular formula
SiCl4
CAS number
10026-04-7
IUPAC name
tetrachlorosilane
State
State

At room temperature, silicon tetrachloride is a liquid. It tends to fume in the air due to its reaction with atmospheric moisture, forming hydrochloric acid.

Melting point (Celsius)
-70.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
203.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
57.60
Boiling point (Kelvin)
330.75
General information
Molecular weight
169.90g/mol
Molar mass
169.9030g/mol
Density
1.4830g/cm3
Appearence

Silicon tetrachloride is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor. It is often fuming in moist air due to the hydrolysis reaction with water, which releases hydrogen chloride gas. In its pure form, it is clear and has a mild characteristic chlorine-like smell.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Tetrachlorosilane (SiCl4)

Tetrachlorosilane, with the chemical formula SiCl4, exhibits interesting solubility properties that are noteworthy in the realm of chemical compounds:

  • Insoluble in Water: SiCl4 is largely insoluble in water, which limits its use in aqueous environments.
  • Soluble in Organic Solvents: It demonstrates a good degree of solubility in nonpolar solvents, such as benzene and carbon tetrachloride, due to its nonpolar nature.
  • Reactivity with Water: When tetrachlorosilane comes into contact with water, it readily reacts, producing silicic acid and hydrochloric acid gas. This reactivity essentially makes the compound highly unstable in aqueous environments.
  • Effect of Temperature: Solvent solubility can change with temperature; as the temperature rises, the solubility in organic solvents may be enhanced.

In summary, SiCl4 is characterized by its insolubility in water and significant reactivity upon contact with moisture, while it maintains a strong affinity for nonpolar organic solvents, making it an intriguing compound in various applications.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Tetrachlorosilane (SiCl4)

Tetrachlorosilane is a fascinating compound with a variety of applications and properties that make it particularly significant in the field of materials science and chemistry. Here are some compelling facts to consider:

  • Precursor to Silicon: Tetrachlorosilane is primarily used as a precursor in the manufacture of silicon and silicon dioxide. It plays a critical role in the production of high-purity silicon for semiconductors and solar cells.
  • Chemical Versatility: This compound can undergo various chemical reactions. It can react with water to produce silanols and hydrochloric acid, showcasing its reactive nature. The reaction is as follows:
    SiCl4 + 2H2O → Si(OH)4 + 4HCl
  • Industrial Applications: Beyond silicon production, tetrachlorosilane is used in the synthesis of organosilicon compounds, which are essential in the formulation of products such as sealants, adhesives, and coatings.
  • Safety Precautions: As a toxic and corrosive substance, tetrachlorosilane requires careful handling. It can cause severe respiratory irritation and must be managed under strict safety protocols.
  • Environmental Impact: Due to its environmental implications, the use and disposal of tetrachlorosilane must comply with regulatory guidelines to minimize its impact on the ecosystem.

In summary, tetrachlorosilane is not only crucial in advancing technologies in electronics and material sciences but also poses significant handling and environmental challenges. Understanding its properties and effects is essential for both chemists and industry professionals alike.

Synonyms
Tetrachlorosilane
SILICON TETRACHLORIDE
Perchlorosilane
Tetrachlorosilicon
Chlorid kremicity
Silicio(tetracloruro di)
Siliciumtetrachlorid
Siliciumtetrachloride
Silicon chloride (SiCl4)
Tetrachlorure de silicium
Silicium(tetrachlorure de)
CCRIS 1324
HSDB 683
EINECS 233-054-0
UNII-96L75U0BM3
96L75U0BM3
EC 233-054-0
Silicium Muriaticum
233-054-0
10026-04-7
Silane, tetrachloro-
Silicon chloride
Silicon(IV) chloride
SiCl4
MFCD00011229
Siliciumtetrachlorid [German]
Chlorid kremicity [Czech]
Siliciumtetrachloride [Dutch]
Tetrachlorure de silicium [French]
Silicium(tetrachlorure de) [French]
UN1818
Perchlorosilane; Silicon chloride (SiCl4); LS 10; LS 10 (silane); Silicon tetrachloride
SIC-L(TM)
Silicon tetrachloride, 99%
SCHEMBL20461
DTXSID0029711
SILICON TETRACHLORIDE [MI]
SILICON TETRACHLORIDE [HSDB]
AKOS015902307
Silicon(IV)chloride, fiber optic grade
UN 1818
s15300
BS-42095
Silicon(IV) chloride, (99.9999%-Si)
NS00047901
T0636
S15310
Silicon tetrachloride [UN1818] [Corrosive]
Q413709
Silicon tetrachloride, 99.998% trace metals basis
Silicon tetrachloride, packaged for use in deposition systems