What is the chemical formula for calcium chloride?

The correct answer, calcium chloride, is represented by the chemical formula CaCl₂. This formula indicates that each molecule of calcium chloride consists of one calcium atom (Ca) and two chlorine atoms (Cl). Calcium is an alkaline earth metal that commonly forms ionic compounds, and in the case of calcium chloride, it bonds with chlorine, a halogen, to produce a salt that is highly soluble in water.

Calcium chloride is widely used for various applications including de-icing roads, as a desiccant, and in food preservation, among other uses. The presence of two chlorine atoms is crucial, as it balances the charge of the calcium ion, which has a +2 charge, allowing for the formation of a stable ionic compound.