Calcium chloride is a chemical compound composed of calcium and chlorine ions. It has the chemical formula CaCl2. Calcium chloride is a common salt that is highly soluble in water and has various uses, including:

1. **De-icing Agent:** Calcium chloride is used as a de-icing agent on roads and sidewalks to melt ice and snow in cold climates.

2. **Desiccant:** It is employed as a desiccant to remove moisture from the air in various industrial and commercial applications.

3. **Food Additive:** In the food industry, it is used as a firming agent and preservative in canned vegetables and other food products.

4. **Drying Agent:** Calcium chloride is utilized as a drying agent in laboratories to absorb water and other solvents.

5. **Oil and Gas Industry:** It plays a role in drilling fluids, as well as in controlling dust and stabilizing roads in the oil and gas industry.

6. **Concrete Accelerator:** In construction, it is used as a concrete accelerator to speed up the setting and hardening of concrete.

7. **Medicine:** In medicine, it can be used to treat calcium deficiencies in the human body.

Calcium chloride is a versatile chemical with a wide range of applications due to its hygroscopic and exothermic properties.