Table of Contents
What is Calcium Carbonate?
Calcium carbonate is a chemical compound with the formula CaCO 3 . It is a common substance found in rocks as the minerals calcite and aragonite, and is the main component of shells of marine organisms, snails, and eggs. Calcium carbonate is also the main component of CaCO 3 buffers in blood and other body fluids, and it is used in production of cement and lime.
Types of Calcium Carbonate found in the Environment
There are three types of calcium carbonate found in the environment- calcium carbonate, calcium oxide, and calcium hydroxide. Calcium carbonate is the most common and is found in limestone, chalk, and marble. Calcium oxide is found in lime and calcium hydroxide is found in hydrated lime.
CaCO3 Structure
Calcium carbonate has a trigonal crystal structure, meaning that the carbonate ions are arranged in a triangular fashion. The calcium ions are located in the center of the structure, while the carbonate ions are located on the outside. This structure is held together by ionic bonding, which occurs when the positive and negative ions are attracted to each other.
Calcium Carbonate Formula CaCO 3
Calcium Carbonate Description
- Calcium carbonate is a chemical compound found in limestone, chalk, and marble. It is a white solid that is slightly soluble in water.
- Calcium carbonate is used in many industries, including the production of paper, plastics, and paint. It is also used as a dietary supplement and in the production of cement.
Preparation of CaCO3
In a beaker, dissolve calcium chloride in water. Add sodium carbonate and stir until the sodium carbonate is dissolved. If any undissolved sodium carbonate remains, heat the solution until it is dissolved. Filter the solution if necessary. The solution is now ready to use.
Commercial Production of Calcium Carbonate
Calcium carbonate is a chemical compound with the formula CaCO3. It is a common substance found in rocks as the minerals calcite and aragonite, and is the main component of lime and mortar. Calcium carbonate is also the active ingredient in agricultural lime and is used as a food additive, antacid, and calcium supplement.
Physical Properties of CaCO3
- Chemical Formula: CaCO3
- Molar Mass: 100.09 g/mol
- Density: 2.7 g/cm3
- Melting Point: 801 °C
- Boiling Point: 1484 °C
Application of Calcium Carbonate
A calcium carbonate suspension is used as an antacid to relieve heartburn, sour stomach, or acid indigestion. It may also be used to prevent peptic ulcers.
Calcium Carbonate Uses
The calcium carbonate that is used in supplements is derived from oyster shells, coral, and other marine organisms. It is also used in antacids, as a calcium supplement, and to fortify foods.
