Cupric chloride

Cupric Chloride is a chemical compound with the formula CuCl2. It is a light brown solid which readily absorbs moisture from the air to form a blue-green dihydrate. Cupric chloride is used in a variety of applications including as a wood preservative, pigment, and analytical reagent.

Chemical Properties

Cupric chloride is a strong Lewis acid, which means it can accept a pair of electrons to form a covalent bond. It is also a weak Bronsted acid, meaning it can donate a proton (H+) in a reaction. The compound is soluble in water, alcohol, and slightly soluble in ether.

Physical Properties

Cupric chloride is a light brown solid in its anhydrous form. When it absorbs moisture from the air, it forms a blue-green dihydrate. The compound has a melting point of 498°C and a boiling point of 993°C.

Production

Cupric chloride can be produced by the action of chlorine on copper in the presence of water. It can also be produced by the reaction of copper sulfate with sodium chloride.

Uses

Cupric chloride is used as a wood preservative and a pigment. It is also used as an analytical reagent in the laboratory. In addition, it is used in the process of copper plating and in the production of other copper compounds.

Safety

Cupric chloride is harmful if swallowed or inhaled. It can cause burns and serious eye damage. Therefore, it should be handled with care and appropriate safety measures should be taken.

See Also

• Copper
• Copper(II) sulfate
• Copper plating