Introduction

Calcium carbonate is a chemical compound with the formula CaCO₃. It is a common substance found in rocks as the minerals calcite and aragonite. It is the main component of shells of marine organisms, snails, coal balls, pearls, and eggshells. Calcium carbonate is the active ingredient in agricultural lime and is created when calcium ions in hard water react with carbonate ions to create limescale.

Properties of Calcium Carbonate

Chemical Formula: CaCO₃
Molar Mass: 100.09 g/mol
Appearance: Fine, white, odorless powder
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water
Acidity: Calcium carbonate is basic in nature

Preparation of Calcium Carbonate

Calcium carbonate can be prepared by mixing calcium oxide with water to produce calcium hydroxide, then reacting the calcium hydroxide with carbon dioxide to form calcium carbonate precipitate.

Uses of Calcium Carbonate

Calcium carbonate has various applications:

As a dietary supplement for calcium
In the manufacturing of cement and mortar
In the production of plastics, paints, and coatings
As a filler in the production of paper, rubber, and ceramics
In the treatment of acidic soil as agricultural lime

Reactions of Calcium Carbonate

Calcium carbonate undergoes several reactions including:

Reaction with acids to produce carbon dioxide gas and a salt
Thermal decomposition to form calcium oxide and carbon dioxide gas

Environmental Impact

Calcium carbonate is a naturally occurring mineral and is generally considered environmentally friendly. However, excessive use as a soil amendment can impact the pH of the soil and affect the growth of certain plants.

Conclusion

Calcium carbonate is a versatile compound with a wide range of applications in various industries. Understanding its properties, preparation, and reactions is essential for its effective utilization.

◂Chemistry Worksheets and Study Guides High School. Atomic Structure - Set I

Worksheet/Answer key

Atomic Structure - Set I

Worksheet/Answer key

Atomic Structure - Set I

Worksheet/Answer key

Atomic Structure - Set I

The resources above cover the following skills:

Concepts of Physical Science (SB1, SB2, SB3, SB4)

The student demonstrates an understanding of the structure and properties of matter by describing atoms and their base components (i.e., protons, neutrons, electrons).

The student demonstrates an understanding of the interactions between matter and energy and the effects of these interactions on systems by recognizing that atoms emit and absorb electromagnetic radiation.

Concepts of Physical Science (SB1, SB2, SB3, SB4)

The student demonstrates an understanding of the structure and properties of matter by using the periodic table to describe atoms in terms of their base components (i.e., protons, neutrons, electrons).