Gold(III) chloride

Description

Gold(III) chloride, traditionally called auric chloride, is a chemical compound of gold and chlorine. With the molecular formula AuCl3, the name gold trichloride is a simplification, referring to the empirical formula. The Roman numerals in the name indicate that the gold has an oxidation state of +3, which is common for gold compounds. There is also another related chloride of gold, gold(I) chloride (AuCl). Chloroauric acid, HAuCl4, the product formed when gold dissolves in aqua regia, is sometimes referred to as “gold chloride” or “acid gold trichloride”. Gold(III) chloride is very hygroscopic and highly soluble in water as well as ethanol. It decomposes above 160°C or in light.

Synonyms

Trichlorogold;Gold(III) Chloride;

Molecular Weight

303.33

Molecular Formula

AuCl3

Melting Point

254ºC

Density

3.9 g/mL at 25ºC

Appearance

Dark red monoclinic crystals

EC Number

236-623-1

LogP

-8.99050

MDL Number

MFCD00014172

Symbol

GHS07,GHS05