Chemical Composition and Properties:
Formula: CaCO₃
Molecular Weight: 100.09 g/mol
Appearance: White, odorless powder or colorless crystals
Natural Occurrence:
Minerals: Found in minerals like calcite, aragonite, and vaterite
Sedimentary Rocks: Main component of limestone and marble
Biological Role: Present in the shells of marine organisms, snails, pearls, and eggshells
Industrial Uses:
Construction: Used as a building material (marble), aggregate (limestone), and in cement production
Food Industry: Acts as a calcium supplement, acidity regulator, and an anti-caking agent
Pharmaceuticals: Used in antacids and as a calcium source
Paper Production: Acts as a filler and coating pigment
Plastics: Increases the durability and extends the life of plastic products
Paints: Serves as a white pigment (also known as whiting)
Reactions:
With Acids: Reacts with acids to produce carbon dioxide, water, and a dissolved salt, e.g., CaCO₃ + 2HCl → CaCl₂ + CO₂ + H₂O
Thermal Decomposition: Decomposes to form calcium oxide (quicklime) and carbon dioxide upon heating, e.g., CaCO₃ → CaO + CO₂
Environmental Impact:
Natural Waterways: Helps neutralize acidic waters and acts as a natural buffering agent
Acid Rain: Limestone can be used to neutralize the effects of acid rain on lakes and soils
Carbon Sequestration: Calcium carbonate formation helps in capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere
Health and Safety:
Inhalation: Dust can irritate the respiratory tract
Ingestion: Generally considered safe, but excessive intake can lead to hypercalcemia (high levels of calcium in the blood)
Skin Contact: May cause minor irritation
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