Which of the following is widely used for treating ice on roads, particularly in very cold countries?

Options

A. `BaCl_(2)`
B. `CaCl_(2)`
C. `MgCl_(2)`
D. `SrCl_(2)`

Answer

B

Explanation

Because as 30% eutectic mixture of `CaCl_(2)//H_(2)O` freezes at `-55^(@)C` compared with `NaCl//H_(2)O` at `-18^(@)C,CaCl_(2)` is also used to make concrete set more quickly and to improve its strenght and as brine in refrigeration plants. A minor use is in laboratories as a desiccant (dryign agent).
Anhydrous `MgCl_(2)` is important in the electrolytic method for extracting Mg.