Chemical Properties of Calcium Oxide
Calcium oxide exhibits wide range of chemical properties and some of its important chemical properties includes:
Reactivity with Water
Calcium oxide is highly reactive with water, and when it comes in contact with water, it undergoes a vigorous exothermic reaction. This reaction results in the formation of calcium hydroxide [Ca(OH)2] and the release of a significant amount of heat. The equation for this reaction is
CaO + H2O → Ca(OH)2
- Carbonation: Calcium oxide can absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, converting back into calcium carbonate (CaCO3).
- Desiccant Properties: Calcium oxide is a strong desiccant, meaning it has a strong affinity for moisture. It can be used to remove water from gases and liquids, making it valuable in drying applications, including the removal of moisture from industrial processes.
- Reactivity with Carbon: Calcium oxide when heated in the presence of carbon, reduces carbon dioxide to produce carbon monoxide. T
- Electrolysis: In molten form or in the presence of water, calcium oxide exhibits electrical conductivity. This property can be used in processes like the electrolysis of metals.
- Strong Alkalinity: Calcium oxide is a strong alkaline compound which has the ability to increase the pH of solutions, making it useful in applications where alkalinity is required.
- Reduction Reactions: Calcium oxide can also behave as a reducing agent, participating in various reduction reactions.
Calcium Oxide
Calcium oxide is a white, caustic alkaline which is solid at room temperature. Calcium Oxide is known as quicklime is a material which is a commonly used material. Calcium Oxide reactivity with water, along with its other chemical properties, makes it a very important chemical in various fields.
In this article we will learn in detail about calcium oxide, its properties, applications and other details in detail.