Table of Contents
Introduction to Calcium Chloride
Calcium Chloride (CaCl₂):
Calcium chloride is a salt that is composed of calcium and chlorine. It is a colorless solid that is soluble in water. It is used as a de-icer, as a food additive, and as a firming agent in food. It is also used in the production of plastics, paint, and other industrial products.
Preparation of Calcium Chloride
To prepare calcium chloride, calcium oxide is reacted with hydrochloric acid.
Calcium oxide is produced by heating limestone (calcium carbonate) in a kiln:
CaCO3(s) → CaO(s) + CO2(g)
Hydrochloric acid is produced by the reaction of chlorine gas with water:
Cl2(g) + H2O(l) → 2HCl(g)
Properties of Calcium Chloride (CaCl2)
Calcium chloride is a white crystalline solid. It is very soluble in water, and it is used as a de-icing agent. It also has a number of other applications, including as a food additive, in water treatment, and in the production of other chemicals.
CaCl2 Structure
The CaCl2 molecule is composed of one calcium atom and two chlorine atoms. The calcium atom is located at the center of the molecule, and the chlorine atoms are located on either side of it. The CaCl2 molecule has a V-shaped structure, with the calcium atom at the point of the V and the chlorine atoms extending out from it.
The formula of Calcium Chloride
is CaCl2.
This means that for every molecule of Calcium Chloride there are two molecules of Chlorine.
Preparing Calcium Chloride
1. Fill a beaker with 100 mL of water.
2. Add 1 g of calcium chloride to the water.
3. Stir the mixture until the calcium chloride is dissolved.
4. Pour the mixture into a graduated cylinder.
5. Record the volume of the mixture.
6. Divide the volume by 100 to find the concentration of the calcium chloride solution.
CaCl2 Uses
- The most common use of calcium chloride is as a de-icer for roads, sidewalks, and driveways.
- It can also be used to improve the effectiveness of salt in melting ice.
- Calcium chloride is also used in agriculture to improve soil fertility, to condition soil before planting, and to help crops recover from frost damage. It is also used as a feed supplement for livestock and poultry.
Health Hazards of Calcium Chloride
When calcium chloride is inhaled, it can irritate the lungs. It can also cause skin and eye irritation.
Benefits of Calcium Chloride
Calcium chloride is a salt that is used to improve the texture and firmness of food products. It is also used as a firming agent in canned fruits and vegetables. Calcium chloride can also be used as a preservative in food products.
The Side Effects of Intaking Calcium Chloride
There are few side effects associated with taking calcium chloride. Some people may experience mild stomach upset or constipation. It is also possible to experience a calcium overdose, which can cause nausea, vomiting, and constipation.
