Final answer:
The ionic compound formula CaCl2 indicates that one calcium ion with a 2+ charge pairs with two chloride ions, each with a 1- charge, creating an electrically neutral compound known as calcium chloride. This compound, when dissolved, will separate into its constituent ions of Ca2+ and Cl-.
Step-by-step explanation:
The formula typically used for the ionic compound formed between calcium ions and chloride ions is CaCl2. This formula indicates that each calcium ion (Ca2+) is paired with two chloride ions (Cl-), which makes the compound electrically neutral, as there is a balance between positive and negative charges. Specifically, calcium chloride is composed of a single calcium ion with a 2+ charge and two chloride ions, each with a 1- charge, giving us (1 x +2) + (2 x -1) = 0, which confirms the neutrality of the compound.
Considering the properties of ionic compounds, such as calcium chloride, when they dissolve in water, they separate into their constituent ions. Hence, calcium chloride would dissociate into Ca2+ and Cl- ions.
When referencing compounds made from elements in the periodic table, such as calcium (Ca), we note that they form predictable ions based on their group positioning. Calcium, being in group 2, commonly forms a 2+ ion when it interacts with nonmetals, like chlorine (Cl), to form stable ionic compounds. The resulting compound, calcium chloride, has a significantly exothermic formation, indicating its stability and propensity to exist over a hypothetical CaCl.