Q1 What is barium chloride used for?

The primary industrial application of BaCl2 is in the purification of the brine solutions that are used in caustic chlorine plants. This compound is also used in the case-hardening of steel and the production of heat treatment salts. This compound has limited applications due to its high toxicity.

Q2 What is the oxidation number of barium and chlorine in BaCl2?

Barium chloride molecules feature an ionic bond between barium cations and chloride anions. Barium is a metal that exhibits an oxidation state of +2 in this ionic salt whereas chlorine is a non-metal which exhibits an oxidation state of -1 in BaCl2.

Q3 Is barium chloride toxic?

Yes, like most other salts of barium, BaCl2 is highly toxic to human beings. Exposure to this compound can cause irritation of the eyes, mucous membrane, and skin. Ingestion or inhalation of barium chloride can also prove fatal. Barium chloride can also negatively impact the central nervous system, the cardiovascular system, and the kidneys.

Q4 How is barium chloride produced industrially?

The industrial production of barium chloride follows a two-step process. First, barium sulfate (usually in the form of the mineral barite) is reacted with carbon at high temperatures to form barium sulphide and carbon monoxide. Then, the barium sulphide is treated with hydrochloric acid to yield barium chloride along with hydrogen sulphide.

Q5 What are the properties of aqueous solutions of BaCl2?

Aqueous solutions of barium chloride have neutral pH values since they contain the cation of a strong base and the anion of a strong acid. When exposed to sulfates, a white precipitate of barium sulfate is obtained.