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Aluminium chloride

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Identification
Molecular formula
AlCl3
CAS number
7446-70-0
IUPAC name
chloroalumane
State
State

Aluminium chloride is in a solid state at room temperature. The compound can exist in different forms, such as the anhydrous form which is often white to yellowish, or in the hexahydrate form which is typically white and crystalline.

Melting point (Celsius)
192.40
Melting point (Kelvin)
465.55
Boiling point (Celsius)
180.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
453.15
General information
Molecular weight
133.34g/mol
Molar mass
133.3400g/mol
Density
2.4800g/cm3
Appearence

Aluminium chloride is typically a white or pale yellow solid when it is pure, appearing as odorless crystals. In the presence of moisture, it might appear more yellowish due to hydrolysis.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Chloroalumane

Chloroalumane (also known as aluminum trichloride, AlCl3) exhibits distinct solubility properties that are essential to understand for its applications in various chemical reactions and processes.

General Solubility Characteristics

  • Solvent Interaction: Chloroalumane is known to be highly soluble in polar solvents, such as water and alcohols.
  • Hydration: Upon dissolution in water, AlCl3 undergoes hydrolysis. This reaction contributes to the formation of acidic solutions, which can significantly affect the pH of the resulting solution.
  • Temperature Effects: The solubility of chloroalumane generally increases with temperature, indicating an endothermic dissolution process.

Key Points

When discussing the solubility of chloroalumane, several critical aspects should be emphasized:

  1. Reactivity: The solubility of AlCl3 in water makes it reactive, particularly in the presence of water, leading to the formation of various aluminum hydroxide complexes.
  2. Environmental Considerations: The solubility and reactivity of chloroalumane must be managed carefully, especially when used in industrial applications, to prevent unwanted environmental interactions.
  3. Concentration Effects: At high concentrations, the solubility of chloroalumane can lead to precipitate formation, which can complicate its use in aqueous solutions.

In conclusion, understanding the solubility of chloroalumane is critical for its effective use in chemical reactions and processes. Its ability to readily dissolve in polar solvents and react in aqueous environments exemplifies the intricate relationship between chemical properties and solvent interactions.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Chloroalumane

Chloroalumane is a fascinating compound in the realm of organometallic chemistry. As a derivative of aluminum, it showcases the intricate interplay of metals and organic components, which is pivotal for various chemical applications. Here's what you need to know about this intriguing compound:

  • Structure: Chloroalumane consists of aluminum bonded to chlorine and organic groups, making it a significant component in the synthesis of organoaluminum compounds.
  • Reactivity: This compound is known for its *high reactivity* with various substrates, especially in the presence of moisture. Its reactivity profile allows it to be a valuable reagent in organic synthesis.
  • Applications: Chloroalumane plays a crucial role in:
    • Polymerization processes, where it serves as a catalyst.
    • The preparation of other organoaluminum compounds that are essential in industrial chemistry.
  • Historical Significance: The study of chloroalumane has contributed to advancements in *synthetic methodologies* and has opened doors to new pathways in chemical research.
  • Safety Note: Due to its reactivity, handling chloroalumane requires adherence to strict safety protocols to mitigate any risks associated with exposure.

In conclusion, the study of chloroalumane not only enhances our understanding of organometallic chemistry but also underscores the importance of collaboration between theoretical research and practical applications. As one scientist insightfully remarked, “The beauty of chemistry lies in its complexity and the endless possibilities it offers for innovation.”

Synonyms
chloroalane