Calcium chloride is a chemical compound with the formula CaCl2. It is a white, crystalline substance that is highly soluble in water. Commonly used as a de-icing agent on roads during winter, it helps to lower the freezing point of water, making it effective in melting ice and snow. In addition to its use in winter maintenance, calcium chloride is also utilized in various industrial applications, such as in the production of cement and as a drying agent in laboratories. It can also be found in some food products as a firming agent or preservative.