To clear ice and snow from slick roads, road crews usually use either calcium chloride or sodium chloride. These two materials were analyzed, and some results are shown in the table. From examining the data, what property of the materials is most likely used to decide which material to put on a slick road?

Question

solubility

melting point

color

boiling point

Answer 1

The property of the materials that is most likely used to decide which material to put on a slick road is solubility.

Solubility is important in this context because the effectiveness of ice and snow melt relies on how well the chemical can dissolve in water. A more soluble substance can work more effectively at lower temperatures, creating a brine solution that lowers the freezing point of water and thereby aids in melting ice and snow.