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Definition of GaCl3
GaCl3, also known as Gallium(III) Chloride or Gallium Trichloride in English, is a chemical compound consisting of gallium and chlorine. It has one gallium atom (Ga) and three chlorine atoms (Cl), with an atomic weight of 176.3 g/mol. This molecule possesses an octahedral structure, with gallium at the centre and three chlorine atoms surrounding it. When dissociated, GaCl3 forms Ga3+ and Cl− ions. -
Properties of GaCl3
GaCl3 is solid and its color ranges from white to pale yellow. It is odorless and has a neutral pH level. Chemically, GaCl3 readily reacts with water to form hydrochloric acid and gallium hydroxide. -
Common chemical equations involving GaCl3
GaCl3 reacts with water according to the equation: GaCl3 + 3H2O -> Ga(OH)3 + 3HCl. It can also react with metals such as aluminum, nickel to form gallium and chlorine. -
Synthesis of GaCl3
In the laboratory, GaCl3 is usually synthesized through the reaction between gallium and chlorine. Industrially, GaCl3 can be produced through the distillation process from a mixture of gallium and chlorine.