Which diagram best represents the composition of an aqueous calcium chloride (CaCl2) solution? (water molecules are not shown) BACED

To determine which diagram best represents the composition of an aqueous calcium chloride (CaCl₂) solution, we need to understand the dissociation of CaCl₂ in water.

Breakdown of the Problem

1. Identify the Components: Calcium chloride (CaCl₂) dissociates into calcium ions (Ca²⁺) and chloride ions (Cl⁻) when dissolved in water.
2. Analyze the Dissociation: For every 1 molecule of CaCl₂ that dissolves, it produces:
   • 1 Ca²⁺ ion
   • 2 Cl⁻ ions

Relevant Concepts

• The solution contains ions in the ratio of 1:2 for calcium to chloride.
• Since the problem states that water molecules are not shown, the focus is on the ions present in the solution.

Analysis and Detail

1. Composition in the Solution:

   • Total ions from 1 CaCl₂:
     • 1 Ca²⁺
     • 2 Cl⁻
   • Thus, the solution will consist of:
     • 1 calcium ion for every 3 ions (1 Ca²⁺ + 2 Cl⁻ = 3 total ions).

2. Visual Representation: The correct diagram should show:

   • Multiple chloride ions relative to the single calcium ion, indicating that the majority of the particles in the solution are chloride ions.

Verify and Summarize

• When analyzing the provided options labeled A, B, C, D, and E, look for a diagram that has:
  • 1 distinct calcium ion (Ca²⁺).
  • 2 distinct chloride ions (Cl⁻).

From this breakdown and analysis, choose the diagram that best represents the ratio of ions in the solution.

Final Answer

The diagram that best represents the composition of an aqueous calcium chloride (CaCl₂) solution exhibits 1 calcium ion (Ca²⁺) and 2 chloride ions (Cl⁻). Select the corresponding option from BACED that matches this representation.