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Calcium carbide

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Identification
Molecular formula
CaC2
CAS number
75-20-7
IUPAC name
calcium;acetylide
State
State

Calcium carbide is a solid at room temperature. It is typically supplied in a granular or powder form. It reacts vigorously with water to produce acetylene gas, which necessitates its handling and storage in airtight containers.

Melting point (Celsius)
2 160.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
2 433.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
2 300.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
2 573.00
General information
Molecular weight
64.10g/mol
Molar mass
64.0990g/mol
Density
2.2200g/cm3
Appearence

Calcium carbide appears as a grayish-black rock-like solid. It is an industrial-grade chemical compound that often takes on a lumpy form when stored and shipped. When exposed to moisture, it can emit a distinctive garlic-like odor due to the production of acetylene gas.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Calcium Acetylide

Calcium acetylide, represented by the chemical formula CaC2, exhibits unique solubility characteristics due to its ionic nature.

Key Solubility Features:

  • Insoluble in Water: Calcium acetylide is generally considered insoluble in water. This is primarily due to the strong ionic bonds present in the compound, which prevent it from easily dissociating in an aqueous environment.
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: Interestingly, calcium acetylide shows some degree of solubility in organic solvents such as alcohols and ether. This can be an essential consideration when working in synthetic applications.
  • Reaction with Water: When calcium acetylide does come into contact with water, it reacts vigorously to produce acetylene gas (C2H2) and calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2). The evolution of acetylene during this reaction underscores the importance of handling this compound in a controlled manner.

In summary, while calcium acetylide is not soluble in water, its reactivity with water and solubility in certain organic solvents can open up various applications in organic synthesis and materials chemistry. As always, when working with such compounds, safety precautions should be prioritized due to the potential for hazardous gas release.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Calcium Acetylide

Calcium acetylide is a fascinating compound that plays a significant role in various chemical reactions and industrial applications. Here are some intriguing points to consider:

  • Preparation: Calcium acetylide is typically prepared by reacting calcium carbide with water. The reaction not only produces calcium acetylide but also releases acetylene gas, which is useful in welding and cutting applications.
  • Uses: This compound is notably used in the production of acetylene for various applications, including the synthesis of organic compounds and as a fuel for oxy-acetylene welding.
  • Chemical Behavior: Calcium acetylide is known for its reactivity; it can react vigorously with acids, producing acetylene and calcium salts. This reactivity demonstrates its importance in organic synthesis and enables a wide range of chemical transformations.
  • Properties: Calcium acetylide is sensitive to moisture and must be handled with care. It illustrates the need for proper storage to avoid unintended reactions, particularly in a laboratory or industrial setting.
  • Historical Significance: The use of explosive mixtures containing calcium acetylide dates back to the development of early mining detonators and pyrotechnics, highlighting its historical importance in chemistry.

In summary, calcium acetylide is not just a simple compound but a gateway to numerous industrial processes and a pivotal player in the advancement of chemical synthesis. Its ability to produce acetylene gas has made it an invaluable resource for chemists and engineers alike.