cuprous chloride

chemical compound

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June 25, 2026

Quick Summary

Cuprous chloride, also known as copper(I) chloride, is a chemical compound of copper. It is a white, poisonous powder with the chemical formula CuCl.12

Cuprous chloride is one of two main series of copper compounds, the other being cupric compounds. It is typically prepared by reducing cupric chloride with metallic copper. This compound readily absorbs carbon monoxide and acetylene, making it useful in gas analysis. It also serves as a catalyst in various organic reactions, such as the synthesis of acrylonitrile.324

While stable in dry air, cuprous chloride can convert to a greenish, oxygenated compound in moist air and transforms into cupric chloride when exposed to light. It is insoluble in water but dissolves in concentrated hydrochloric acid or ammonia due to the formation of complex ions.4

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Electrochemical applications
…cathode of silver chloride or cuprous chloride. When activated by water, they rapidly build up voltages of 1.3 to 1.8 volts and operate at a constant potential between −55 and 95 °C (−67 and 200 °F).
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…cathode of silver chloride or cuprous chloride. When activated by water, they rapidly build up voltages of 1.3 to 1.8 volts and operate at a constant potential between −55 and 95 °C (−67 and 200 °F).
Read More