Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Hydrogen chloride refers to a compound formed when hydrogen gas reacts with chlorine gas. It consists of one hydrogen atom and one chlorine atom (HCl) bonded together. Hydrogen chloride is a colorless, corrosive gas with a sharp odor.
Related terms
Hydrogen gas: Hydrogen gas (H2) consists of two hydrogen atoms bonded together. It is one of the reactants involved in forming hydrogen chloride.
Equilibrium refers to a state in which the forward and reverse reactions occur at equal rates, resulting in no overall change in the concentrations of reactants and products.