what is the chemical formula for calcium carbide
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The chemical formula for calcium carbide is CaC₂.
Explanation:
Calcium carbide is a compound composed of calcium (Ca) and carbon (C). It is produced through a reaction between lime (CaO) and coke (a form of carbon) at high temperatures. The process is typically carried out in an electric arc furnace where calcium oxide reacts with carbon to form calcium carbide and carbon monoxide:
CaO+3C→CaC2+CO\text{CaO} + 3\text{C} \rightarrow \text{CaC}_2 + \text{CO}CaO+3C→CaC2+CO
In calcium carbide, each calcium atom (Ca) has a +2 charge, while the carbide ion (C₂) carries a 2− charge. This is due to the fact that carbon atoms in the carbide ion bond with each other through a triple bond, forming a C≡C bond. This bonding arrangement stabilizes the C₂²⁻ ion.
The compound is primarily used in the production of acetylene (C₂H₂) gas, which is utilized in welding, cutting metals, and other industrial processes. When calcium carbide reacts with water, it produces acetylene gas and calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂):
CaC2+2H2O→C2H2+Ca(OH)2\text{CaC}_2 + 2\text{H}_2\text{O} \rightarrow \text{C}_2\text{H}_2 + \text{Ca(OH)}_2CaC2+2H2O→C2H2+Ca(OH)2
This reaction is important because acetylene is a highly reactive and flammable gas, making it valuable in many industrial applications. Calcium carbide also has uses in the manufacture of chemicals, such as calcium cyanamide, which is used as a fertilizer.
Thus, the formula CaC₂ reflects the stoichiometric relationship between calcium and the carbide ion in the compound.
