Calcium, -carbide, -oxide and water

The reactions between water, the element calcium, its compounds with carbon (-carbide) and with oxygen (-oxide) are compared.

Calcium and calcium carbide undergo vigorous chemical reactions producing two different flammable gases and leaving a turbid white liquid. Such a liquid is also obtained by mixing water and calcium oxide.

       The liquids separate into white solid sediments and colourless transparent supernatants. Two tests prove that they are not water but lime water.

 

First published: 14.04.2014