What is the Difference Between Stannic and Stannous Chloride?

The main difference between stannic and stannous chloride lies in the oxidation state of tin:

• Stannic chloride is tin(IV) chloride, also known as tin tetrachloride, and has the chemical formula SnCl4. It has a +4 oxidation state of tin.
• Stannous chloride is tin(II) chloride, and has the chemical formula SnCl2. It has a +2 oxidation state of tin.

The two compounds can be prepared using different methods:

• Stannic chloride can be made by reacting chlorine gas with tin metal at 115°C.
• Stannous chloride can be made by reacting dry halogen chloride gas with tin metal.

Stannous chloride has a higher melting point than stannic chloride due to its strong oxidizing properties, which cause it to form more powerful intermolecular bonds. Stannous chloride is also a more powerful oxidizing agent compared to stannic chloride, which is why it is used in various applications such as tin plating, mordant in textile dyeing, protecting agent in toothpaste, catalyst in PLA plastic production, and as a reducing agent.

Comparative Table: Stannic vs Stannous Chloride

Here is a table summarizing the differences between stannic and stannous chloride:

Stannic chloride has the +4 oxidation state of tin, while stannous chloride has the +2 oxidation state of tin. Stannic chloride is an oxidizing agent and can be prepared by reacting chlorine gas with tin metal at 115 Celsius. Stannous chloride is a strong reducing agent and can be prepared by reacting dry halogen chloride gas with tin metal. Stannous chloride is more commercially used than stannic chloride, as it is involved in organic and inorganic synthesis and tin galvanizing.