The valency of Copper in Cupric chloride is

The valency of copper is an essential concept in understanding its chemical behavior in compounds. In the case of cupric chloride, the chemical formula is CuCl₂.

Copper in this compound exhibits a valency of 2. This is because chlorine (Cl) is a univalent element, meaning each chlorine atom has a valency of 1. Since there are two chlorine atoms in CuCl₂, the total negative charge is -2. To balance this, the valency of copper must be +2, making it a divalent metal in this compound.

Different Oxidation States of Copper

Copper can exist in multiple oxidation states, primarily:

• Cu⁺: Known as cuprous, where the valency of copper is 1.
• Cu²⁺: Known as cupric, where the valency of copper is 2.

In cupric chloride (CuCl₂), the valency of copper is specifically 2 due to its combination with two mono-valent chlorine atoms.