Chlorine

Chlorides are compounds that contain chlorine along with a more electropositive element. The chloride form of any metal is generally soluble in water, with the exception of lead chloride, which is only slightly soluble, and silver chloride, which is insoluble. Antimony chloride, bismuth chlorides, and others decompose in water to create oxychlorides. Most metal chlorides can be melted without decomposition, except for gold and platinum chlorides. Metal chlorides are often used to conduct electricity when fused or dissolved in water and can be decomposed by electrolysis to chlorine gas and the metal.