Formation of Hydrogen Chloride

H2 + Cl2 → 2HCl

Overview

Hydrogen gas and chlorine gas combine to form hydrogen chloride gas. This reaction can be initiated by UV light and proceeds explosively as a radical chain reaction. Dissolving HCl gas in water produces hydrochloric acid.

Participants

Role Substance Coefficient State
Reactant Hydrogen H 1 (g)
Reactant Chlorine Cl 1 (g)
Product Hydrochloric Acid HCl 2 (g)

Everyday Example

Hydrochloric acid, made by dissolving the product in water, is found in muriatic acid used to clean concrete and adjust pool pH.

Industrial Importance

HCl production is important for the chemical industry, used in steel pickling, food processing, and as a reagent in organic synthesis.

Properties

Type
Synthesis
Reversible
No
Energy
Exothermic
ΔH
-184.6 kJ/mol

Related Reactions

Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (General) Formation of Aluminum Oxide Formation of Ammonia (Haber Process) Formation of Barium Oxide Formation of Barium Sulfate Formation of Beryllium Oxide Formation of Cadmium Oxide Formation of Calcium Carbonate from Oxides Formation of Calcium Hydroxide Formation of Calcium Oxide (Quicklime)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Formation of Hydrogen Chloride?
The balanced equation is: H₂ + Cl₂ → 2HCl.
What type of reaction is Formation of Hydrogen Chloride?
Formation of Hydrogen Chloride is a synthesis reaction.
Is Formation of Hydrogen Chloride exothermic or endothermic?
Formation of Hydrogen Chloride is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -184.6 kJ/mol.