calcium chloride


noun

a white, lumpy, deliquescent solid, CaCl2, usually derived from calcium carbonate by reaction with hydrochloric acid, or as a by-product of various commercial processes: used chiefly as a drying agent and preservative and for preventing dust.

Origin of calcium chloride

First recorded in 1880–85

British Dictionary definitions for calcium chloride

calcium chloride

noun

a white deliquescent salt occurring naturally in seawater and used in the de-icing of roads and as a drying agent. Formula: CaCl 2

Scientific definitions for calcium chloride

calcium chloride

A white crystalline salt that attracts water very strongly. It is used in refrigeration and is spread on roads to melt ice and control dust. Chemical formula: CaCl2.