Beryllium chloride

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Beryllium chloride is an inorganic compound with the formula BeCl₂. It is a colorless, hygroscopic solid that is soluble in many polar solvents. Beryllium chloride is primarily used in the synthesis of beryllium-containing compounds and as a catalyst in organic reactions.

Structure and Properties

Beryllium chloride adopts a polymeric structure in the solid state, consisting of tetrahedral Be²⁺ centers bridged by chloride ions. This structure is similar to that of aluminium chloride (AlCl₃). In the gas phase, BeCl₂ exists as a linear molecule with a bond angle of 180°.

Synthesis

Beryllium chloride can be synthesized by the direct reaction of beryllium metal with chlorine gas at elevated temperatures: <math> \text{Be} + \text{Cl}_2 \rightarrow \text{BeCl}_2 </math>

Alternatively, it can be prepared by the reaction of beryllium oxide (BeO) with carbon and chlorine: <math> \text{BeO} + \text{C} + \text{Cl}_2 \rightarrow \text{BeCl}_2 + \text{CO} </math>

Applications

Beryllium chloride is used in the preparation of beryllium metal by reduction with magnesium: <math> \text{BeCl}_2 + \text{Mg} \rightarrow \text{Be} + \text{MgCl}_2 </math>

It also serves as a catalyst in organic synthesis, particularly in the Friedel-Crafts alkylation and acylation reactions.

Safety and Handling

Beryllium chloride is highly toxic and poses significant health risks if inhaled or ingested. It can cause chronic beryllium disease, a serious lung condition. Proper safety measures, including the use of personal protective equipment and adequate ventilation, are essential when handling this compound.

See Also

• Beryllium
• Chlorine
• Aluminium chloride
• Friedel-Crafts reaction