Properties of Calcium Chloride

Calcium chloride is a chemical compound made up of calcium and chlorine. It contains two atoms of chlorine and one atom of calcium. Thus its chemical formula is CaCl₂. It is also known as a common salt, as referred to in chemistry. Calcium chloride can be prepared by various methods. When calcium carbonate or calcium oxide is dissolved in hydrochloric acid, calcium chloride is produced. Calcium chloride is obtained on a large scale as a byproduct of the Solvay process or the ammonia-soda process. In this process, when calcium carbonate reacts with sodium chloride, sodium carbonate and calcium chloride are formed. If we are aware of the basic physical and chemical properties of calcium chloride, we can utilize this chemical substance more effectively. Some important points are given below:

Physical Properties of Calcium Chloride

• Physical state: Calcium chloride can be found in solid state at room temperature, and is available as flakes, granules and powdered form.
• Taste: Calcium chloride is salty to taste. Hence, it is added to many food products like canned vegetables, pickles etc.
• Color: In solid form, calcium chloride is white in color, while in liquidated form, it is colorless.
• Electrical conductivity: Usually in a molten state, it is a good conductor of electricity.
• Thermal conductivity: Calcium chloride is a bad conductor of heat.
• Boiling point: Its boiling point is as high as 1600^oC.
• Solubility: It is soluble both in inorganic solvents like water, as well as organic solvents like ethanol.
• Hygroscopy: It is hygroscopic in nature and absorbs moisture from air. If exposed to open air, it tends to become liquid. That is why, it is often called a deliquescent substance.
• Melting point: It has a low melting point, which means it can be dissolved at a very low temperature.

Chemical Properties of Calcium Chloride

• Exothermic: Calcium chloride is exothermic in nature, that is, it releases heat during any chemical reactions.
• Reaction with water: When calcium chloride is exposed to water, a large amount of heat is liberated, which can cause sputtering and boiling. The end product of this reaction is calcium hydroxide and chlorine gas.
• Reaction with sulfuric acid: When it comes in contact with sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid is formed, which is highly caustic in nature.
• Reaction with metals: Calcium chloride is a non-inflammable substance. However, when it comes in contact with metals like zinc or sodium, it produces hydrogen, which is highly inflammable. For this reason, we should ensure that calcium chloride is kept away from these metals. We should also avoid storage of calcium chloride in containers made of any of these substances.

Despite being a valuable chemical substance, calcium chloride has some harmful side effects. It can cause mild to severe itching when it comes in contact with our skin. So, one should handle it carefully.