Calcium

Calcium is an important chemical element. It plays an important role in chemistry as well as in the function of our body. Calcium is well known for its applications ranging from whitewashing and the formation of marble to strengthening our bones and teeth. It was discovered by Humphry Davy in 1808.

This article deals with calcium, its properties, applications, and more.

Element Name	Calcium
Symbol	Ca
Atomic Number	20
Mass Number	40 g/mol
Valency	2

What is Calcium?

Calcium is a metallic element with atomic number 20. It belongs to the second group and fourth period of the modern periodic table. It is part of the Alkaline Earth Metal family. It is abundantly found in the body of living organisms. It can also be extracted from ores like calcite, dolomite, gypsum and anhydrite. From its presence in bones and teeth to its involvement in chemical reactions, calcium is an integral part of the world we live in.

Calcium Element Symbol

The symbol of calcium is shown below:

Calcium Symbol

Calcium Element Data

The detailed data of calcium element is presented in the table below:

Calcium Element
Atomic Number	20
Atomic Mass	40 g/mol
Group	2
Period	4
Valency	2
Oxidation State	+2
Nature	Metallic
Family	Alkaline Earth Metal
Block	s
Electronic Configuration	[Ar]4s2
Colour	Silvery-white
State	Solid
Density	1.55 gcm-3
Isotopes	6 (40Ca, 42Ca, 43Ca, 44Ca, 46Ca, 48Ca)
Melting Point	842℃ (1115K)
Boiling Point	1484℃ (1757K)
Electronegativity	1.00(Pauling Scale)

Properties of Calcium

The properties of calcium can be discussed into two following types:

• Physical Properties of Calcium
• Chemical Properties of Calcium

Let’s have a look on them:

Physical Properties of Calcium

The physical characteristics of calcium are stated below:

• State: At room temperature, calcium exists as a solid metal.
• Colour: Calcium has a silvery-white appearance.
• Malleability: It is a malleable metal, meaning it can be easily shaped or hammered into thin sheets.
• Ductility: Calcium is ductile, allowing it to be drawn into wires.
• Conductivity: It is a good conductor of electricity.
• Solubility: Insoluble in water

Chemical Properties of Calcium

The chemical features of calcium are mentioned below:

• Reactivity with Water : Calcium is reactive with water, forming calcium hydroxide and hydrogen gas.
• Combustibility: It burns with a yellow-red flame, forming calcium oxide.
• Oxidation State: In compounds, calcium commonly exhibits a +2 oxidation state.
• Reactivity with Acid: React with Acid to Form corresponding metal salts
• Heating: When calcium is heated, carbon dioxide gas is evolved
• Ionization Energies: The first ionization energy of calcium is 589.8 kJ/mol.

Calcium Compounds

Calcium forms numerous compounds. Following are some commonly known compounds of calcium are tabulated below:

Compound	Chemical Formula	Uses
Calcium Carbonate	CaCO3	In Construction and supplement
Calcium Chloride	CaCl2	Food Preservative
Calcium Oxide	CaO	Act as base, used in making bleaching powder
Calcium Hydroxide	CaOH2	In agriculture and water treatment
Calcium Phosphate	Ca3(PO4)2	Essential for Bone Structure

Applications Of Calcium

Calcium is a versatile element and has got numerous applications in chemistry and biology. Following are some uses of calcium:

• Biological Functions: Calcium is a vital component in bones, teeth, and bodily fluids, contributing to the structural integrity of the skeletal system.
• Nutrient: It is an essential dietary mineral for humans and animals.
• Medicine: Calcium supplements are commonly used for treating calcium deficiencies.
• Metallurgy: Calcium is used as a reducing agent in the extraction of other metals.
• Construction: Calcium compounds like calcium oxide are crucial in cement production.
• Steel Production: Calcium is used as a desulfurizing agent during the production of steel.
• Nuclear Power: Calcium is employed as a coolant in nuclear reactors.
• Fluorescent Lighting: Calcium compounds are used in the production of fluorescent lighting.
• Pharmaceuticals: Calcium is a vital component in various pharmaceutical formulations.

Facts About Calcium

Some interesting facts about calcium are mentioned below:

• Abundant Element: Calcium is the fifth most abundant element in the Earth’s crust.
• Discovery: Sir Humphry Davy first isolated calcium in 1808 through the electrolysis of a mixture of lime and mercuric oxide.
• Biological Role: Calcium ions play a key role in cell signalling and muscle contraction.
• Flame Test: Calcium compounds emit a characteristic brick-red flame when burned.
• Isotopes: Calcium has six stable isotopes, with Ca-40 being the most abundant.

Similar Articles
Oxygen	Phosphorus
Nitrogen	Chlorine
Helium	Hydrogen

Calcium Frequently Asked Questions

What is atomic number of calcium?

Atomic number of calcium is 20

What is electronic configuration of Calcium?

The electronic configuration of calcium is 1s²2s²2p⁶3s²3p⁶4s²

How does calcium react with water?

Calcium react vigorously with water forming calcium hydroxide and hydrogen gas

What is the molar mass of calcium?

The molar mass of calcium is 40 gram per mole

What is the valency of calcium?

Valency of calcium is 2

What is oxidation number of calcium?

Calcium takes the oxidation number +2 in a compound

Is calcium metal or non-metal?

Calcium is a metal.

Who discovered calcium?

Calcium was discovered by Humphry Davy in 1808

What are the dietary sources of calcium?

Dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods are excellent sources of dietary calcium.