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 |
|
40 g/mol |
|
|
Group |
2 |
|
Period |
4 |
|
2 |
|
|
+2 |
|
|
Nature |
Metallic |
|
Family |
Alkaline Earth Metal |
|
Block |
s |
|
Electronic Configuration |
[Ar]4s2 |
|
Colour |
Silvery-white |
|
State |
Solid |
|
Density |
1.55 gcm-3 |
|
6 (40Ca, 42Ca, 43Ca, 44Ca, 46Ca, 48Ca) |
|
|
842℃ (1115K) |
|
|
1484℃ (1757K) |
|
|
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 |
|---|---|---|
|
CaCO3 |
In Construction and supplement |
|
|
CaCl2 |
Food Preservative |
|
|
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 |
|
|---|---|
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.