Cadmium iodide facts for kids

Cadmium iodide is a special kind of chemical compound. It's made up of two main parts: cadmium and iodide ions. Think of it like tiny building blocks that fit together. Its chemical formula is CdI₂. This formula tells us that for every one cadmium atom, there are two iodide atoms.

What is Cadmium Iodide Like?

This picture shows the crystal structure of cadmium iodide. It's how the tiny parts are arranged.

Cadmium iodide looks like a white or light yellow solid. It's famous for its unique crystal structure. This means the tiny parts inside it are arranged in a very specific, repeating pattern. Many other chemicals actually share this same type of structure! Cadmium iodide dissolves easily in water. It's important to know that this compound can be harmful if not handled carefully. It should never be eaten or touched without protection.

How is it Made?

Scientists can make cadmium iodide in a few ways. One way is to mix cadmium metal with iodine. It can also be made by reacting cadmium, or cadmium oxide, with a special acid called hydriodic acid. These reactions combine the different elements to form cadmium iodide.

What is it Used For?

Cadmium iodide has several important uses. It is used to make phosphors. Phosphors are materials that glow when they are hit by ultraviolet light. This compound is also used in photography. It helps create images on film or paper. Another use is in electroplating. This is a process where a thin layer of metal is put onto another object.

Related pages

• Cadmium chloride
• Cadmium fluoride
• Cadmium bromide
• Mercury iodide

Images for kids

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  The iodide parts in CdI2 form a pattern like stacked hexagons. The cadmium parts fit into the spaces between these layers.