Al2Cl3

Aluminum chloride is a chemical compound with the formula AlCl3. It exists as a covalent compound in the solid state. At room temperature, it is a white, crystalline solid. It is highly soluble in water, where it readily hydrolyzes to form aluminum hydroxide and hydrochloric acid. This reaction is exothermic, meaning it releases heat. Aluminum chloride is also soluble in many organic solvents.

The compound is a Lewis acid, meaning it can accept a pair of electrons. This property makes it a useful catalyst in various organic reactions, such as the Friedel-Crafts alkylation and acylation. It is used in the production of aluminum metal, as a component in antiperspirants, and in petroleum refining.

Aluminum chloride is typically produced by the reaction of aluminum metal with chlorine gas at high temperatures. It can also be formed by the reaction of aluminum oxide with carbon and chlorine. Due to its reactivity, particularly with water, it must be handled with care and stored in dry conditions. Its vapors are corrosive and irritating to the respiratory tract and eyes.