KobolttiIIkloridi

Koboltti(II)kloridi, also known as cobalt(II) chloride, has the chemical formula CoCl2. It is an inorganic compound that typically exists as a hydrated salt, most commonly as cobalt(II) chloride hexahydrate (CoCl2·6H2O). In its anhydrous form, it is a blue crystalline solid, while the hexahydrate is pink.

Cobalt(II) chloride is soluble in water and alcohols. When dissolved in water, it forms pink or red solutions, depending on the concentration. The anhydrous salt readily absorbs moisture from the air and turns pink due to hydration. This property makes it useful as a desiccant and as an indicator in moisture-sensitive applications, such as in silica gel.

Historically, cobalt(II) chloride has been used as a colorant in glass and ceramics, imparting a deep blue hue. It has also found applications in sympathetic inks, where it appears invisible when dry but becomes visible when heated. In laboratories, it is sometimes used as a reagent in chemical synthesis and in experiments involving cobalt chemistry.

Exposure to cobalt(II) chloride can have health effects. It is considered an irritant and can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Inhalation of dust or fumes should be avoided, and appropriate safety precautions should be taken when handling this compound.