Matthias wants to dissolve a solid sample of calcium chloride (CaCl2), which is an ionic compound.

Question

Which solvent will dissolve the sample of calcium chloride?

liquid mercury
solid copper
hexane, a nonpolar solvent
water, a polar solvent

Answer 1

From Google:

CaCl2 dissolves readily in water, so it won't need any special coaxing to dissolve; be forewarned, however, that it releases heat in the process, so the container will heat up as the compound dissolves. Measure out the amount of calcium chloride you would like to dissolve using the spoon. Add water to the container.