Can calcium react with chlorine gas to give calcium chloride?
Yes, calcium can react with chlorine gas to give calcium chloride. To understand why, let's look at the chemical equation for this reaction:
Ca(s) + Cl2(g) → CaCl2(s)
In this reaction, solid calcium (Ca) reacts with chlorine gas (Cl2) to produce solid calcium chloride (CaCl2).
Generally, when predicting whether a reaction will occur between two substances, we consider factors such as the reactivity and electronegativity of the elements involved.
Calcium (Ca) is a Group 2 alkaline earth metal, which has a tendency to lose two electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration. Chlorine (Cl), on the other hand, is a Group 17 halogen, which has a strong tendency to gain one electron to achieve a stable electron configuration.
During the reaction between calcium and chlorine gas, each calcium atom loses two electrons to form Ca2+ ions. This is denoted as:
Ca(s) → Ca2+(aq) + 2e-
At the same time, each chlorine molecule gains two electrons to form Cl- ions. This is represented as:
Cl2(g) + 2e- → 2Cl-(aq)
The Ca2+ and 2Cl- ions then come together and combine to form solid calcium chloride:
Ca2+(aq) + 2Cl-(aq) → CaCl2(s)
So, by recognizing the reactivity and electron transfer tendencies of calcium and chlorine, we can predict that they will react to form calcium chloride.
To experimentally verify this reaction, you can actually perform it in a controlled laboratory environment. Start by introducing calcium metal into a container of chlorine gas. Observe the reaction, and you should see sparks or a glowing effect due to the release of energy. After the reaction, you can collect the solid calcium chloride formed. However, please note that this reaction should only be conducted by trained individuals in a proper laboratory setting due to safety considerations.
Yes. I assume you have seen magnesium ribbon burn in air (Mg+O2>MgO2).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l5dB19vTXaI
Calcium is more reactive than magnesium.
And, chlorine is more reactive than air (air is 30 percent O2).
So imagine the reaction between calcium and chlorine, very reactive.