How do calcium chloride and sodium chloride differ in chemical formula?

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The chemical formulas for calcium chloride and sodium chloride differ based on the valence of the metal cations involved in their respective ionic bonds.

  • Sodium chloride has the chemical formula NaCl. Sodium is an alkali metal that typically forms a cation with a +1 charge (Na⁺), which balances with a single chloride anion (Cl⁻).1
  • Calcium chloride has the chemical formula CaCl₂. Calcium is an alkaline-earth metal found in Group 2 of the periodic table. Because calcium typically forms a cation with a +2 charge, it requires two chloride anions to achieve a neutral chemical formula.23