Zinc Chloride: Preparation, Properties and Applications
Zinc Chloride is an essential chemical compound that has a wide range of applications in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and electronics. This versatile compound has been used for many years due to its unique properties and its ability to react with other chemicals to produce useful substances. In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at the preparation of Zinc Chloride, its properties, and its various applications.
Structural Formula
This is the structural formula of the zinc chloride:
Chemical Formula
The chemical formula of the zinc chloride is ZnCl2.
Preparation of Zinc Chloride
Zinc Chloride can be prepared by several methods. The most common method involves the reaction of Zinc oxide with Hydrochloric Acid. The reaction between these two chemicals produces Zinc Chloride and water.
ZnS + 2HCl → ZnCl2 + H2S
Another method involves the reaction of Zinc metal with Hydrochloric Acid. The reaction between these two chemicals produces Zinc Chloride and Hydrogen gas.
Zn + HCl → ZnCl2 + H2
Physical Properties of Zinc Chloride
| Melting point | 275C |
| Boiling point | 756C |
| Molecular weight | 136.286g/mol |
| Density | 2.91g/cm3 |
| Solubility in water | Soluble |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Crystal structure | Tetrahedral |
| Magnetic susceptibility | -65.0×10-6cm3/mol |
| Appearance | Colourless or white crystals |
Chemical Properties of Zinc Chloride
Zinc Chloride has several unique chemical properties that make it a useful compound for many different applications. It is a strong Lewis Acid and readily reacts with water to produce Hydrogen Chloride gas. Zinc Chloride is also a strong dehydrating agent and can be used to remove water from organic compounds.
Applications of Zinc Chloride
Zinc Chloride has a wide range of applications in various industries. Some of its most common applications include:
- Pharmaceuticals: Zinc Chloride is used as a coating for pills and capsules to improve their dissolution in the body.
- Agriculture: Zinc Chloride is used as a fertilizer to increase the yield of crops and to improve the growth of plants.
- Electronics: Zinc Chloride is used as an etchant in the production of printed circuit boards.
- Leather tanning: Zinc Chloride is used as a tanning agent to preserve leather and make it more durable.
- Textile industry: Zinc Chloride is used as a mordant in the dyeing of textiles to improve the color fastness of the fabric.
Conclusion
Zinc Chloride is a versatile chemical compound that has a wide range of applications in various industries. Its preparation, properties, and applications have made it a valuable substance for many years. In conclusion, Zinc Chloride is an essential chemical that plays a crucial role in many different industries.
