Cadmium chloride is a chemical compound. Its chemical formula is CdCl2. It has cadmium and chloride ions in it. The cadmium is in its +2 oxidation state.
Properties
Cadmium chloride is a colorless solid. It dissolves easily in water. It is toxic and carcinogenic (causes cancer). It is mostly ionic but a little covalent. It reacts with bases to make cadmium oxide.
Preparation
Cadmium chloride is made by reacting cadmium oxide, cadmium, or cadmium carbonate with hydrochloric acid. It can also be made by mixing cadmium and chlorine.
Uses
It is used to make yellow cadmium sulfide, which is used as a pigment. It is also used to make organocadmium compounds. It is also used for electroplating.