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Calcium hydride

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Identification
Molecular formula
CaH2
CAS number
7789-78-8
IUPAC name
calcium dihydride
State
State

Calcium hydride is a solid at room temperature. It is stable under normal conditions, but it reacts with water, releasing hydrogen gas in the process.

Melting point (Celsius)
816.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
1 089.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
-1.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
-1.00
General information
Molecular weight
42.09g/mol
Molar mass
42.0940g/mol
Density
1.7000g/cm3
Appearence

Calcium hydride typically appears as a grey-white crystalline powder. It may also appear in a granular form. On exposure to moisture, it can become hydrolyzed, resulting in the release of hydrogen gas.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Calcium Dihydride (CaH2)

Calcium dihydride, represented by the formula CaH2, exhibits interesting solubility characteristics. This inorganic hydride is primarily considered insoluble in water. Its low solubility can be attributed to:

  • Ionic nature: CaH2 is composed of calcium ions (Ca2+) and hydride ions (H-), which tend to remain intact in solid form.
  • Interaction with water: When introduced to water, calcium dihydride reacts rather than dissolves, producing calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) and hydrogen gas (H2).

As a result, instead of dissolving, CaH2 participates in a chemical reaction, liberating hydrogen gas, which can lead to effervescence in the solution. The solubility behavior of calcium dihydride illustrates key principles of ionic compounds and their interactions with polar solvents.

In summary, while you might not find calcium dihydride dissolving in water, observe its fascinating reactivity that highlights its unique chemical properties:

  • Insoluble in water
  • Reacts with water to form hydrogen gas and calcium hydroxide
Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Calcium Dihydride

Calcium dihydride, with its unique properties and applications, is a fascinating compound for both chemists and engineering enthusiasts. This inorganic hydride exhibits some remarkable features:

  • Hydrogen Storage: Calcium dihydride is primarily studied for its ability to store and release hydrogen gas. This makes it a viable candidate for research in hydrogen energy solutions, aligning with the need for cleaner energy sources.
  • Reactivity: When exposed to moisture, calcium dihydride reacts vigorously to produce calcium hydroxide and hydrogen gas. This reactivity is a critical consideration when handling the compound in laboratory settings.
  • Production Method: Typically, calcium dihydride can be synthesized through the reaction of calcium with hydrogen gas at elevated temperatures. This method showcases the simplicity yet effectiveness of inorganic synthesis.
  • Uses in Laboratory: Due to its strong reducing properties, this compound is often utilized in organic chemistry as a reducing agent, particularly in the preparation of various hydrides.

Moreover, its role in solid-state chemistry and potential applications in electronics underscore the compound's versatility. In a future where hydrogen fuel cells gain prominence, compounds like calcium dihydride could be essential to advancing sustainable technology. As with any chemical compound, caution should be observed, particularly given its reactivity with water.

In summary, calcium dihydride is not just another inorganic compound; it symbolizes the intersection of traditional chemistry and modern applications, particularly in the quest for efficient energy solutions!