Ca(OH)2

Definition

Ca(OH)2, also known as calcium hydroxide or slaked lime, is a chemical compound that is formed when calcium oxide (CaO) reacts with water. It is an important compound in the context of the occurrence, preparation, and compounds of oxygen.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ca(OH)2 is a white, crystalline solid that is slightly soluble in water, forming a basic solution.
2. It is produced industrially by the reaction of calcium oxide (CaO) with water, a process known as slaking.
3. Ca(OH)2 is widely used in the construction industry, as it is a key component in the production of cement and mortar.
4. It is also used in water treatment processes to adjust the pH and remove impurities.
5. Ca(OH)2 is an important compound in the context of the chemistry of oxygen, as it can react with carbon dioxide to form calcium carbonate (CaCO3).

Review Questions

• Explain the process of producing Ca(OH)2 from limestone and its industrial applications.
  • Ca(OH)2 is produced by the reaction of calcium oxide (CaO), which is obtained by the thermal decomposition of limestone (CaCO3). This process, known as slaking, involves the addition of water to calcium oxide, resulting in the formation of calcium hydroxide. Ca(OH)2 has numerous industrial applications, including the production of cement and mortar, water treatment, and as a pH adjusting agent in various processes.
• Describe the relationship between Ca(OH)2 and the chemistry of oxygen, particularly in the context of carbon dioxide removal.
  • Ca(OH)2 is an important compound in the chemistry of oxygen due to its ability to react with carbon dioxide (CO2) to form calcium carbonate (CaCO3). This reaction is crucial in various applications, such as water treatment, where Ca(OH)2 is used to remove CO2 and other impurities from the water. The formation of CaCO3 also plays a role in the carbon cycle, as it can be deposited and stored in the environment, effectively sequestering carbon.
• Analyze the significance of Ca(OH)2 in the broader context of the occurrence, preparation, and compounds of oxygen, and how it relates to the topics covered in this chapter.
  • Ca(OH)2 is a key compound in the context of the occurrence, preparation, and compounds of oxygen covered in this chapter. Its production from the thermal decomposition of limestone (CaCO3) is an important process in the preparation of oxygen-containing compounds. Furthermore, the reactivity of Ca(OH)2 with carbon dioxide, resulting in the formation of CaCO3, highlights its role in the chemistry of oxygen and its compounds. The widespread use of Ca(OH)2 in various industries, such as water treatment and construction, underscores its significance in the broader context of the topics discussed in this chapter.

Related terms

Calcium Oxide (CaO): Also known as quicklime, calcium oxide is a chemical compound produced by the thermal decomposition of limestone (calcium carbonate).

Limestone:

A sedimentary rock composed primarily of calcium carbonate (CaCO3), which is the raw material used to produce calcium oxide and calcium hydroxide.

Thermal Decomposition:

The process of breaking down a compound into simpler substances by the application of heat, as in the case of converting limestone into calcium oxide.