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Calcium nitrate tetrahydrate

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Identification
Molecular formula
Ca(NO3)2·4H2O
CAS number
13477-34-4
IUPAC name
calcium;nitric acid;tetrahydrate
State
State

At room temperature, calcium nitrate tetrahydrate is in a solid state. It primarily exists as colorless or slightly opaque crystals that can absorb moisture readily.

Melting point (Celsius)
42.70
Melting point (Kelvin)
315.85
Boiling point (Celsius)
132.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
405.15
General information
Molecular weight
236.15g/mol
Molar mass
236.1500g/mol
Density
1.8962g/cm3
Appearence

Calcium nitrate tetrahydrate typically appears as a white to light gray crystalline solid. It is known for its hygroscopic nature, meaning it can absorb moisture from the air. This compound is often crystalline and in some cases can form clusters or aggregates of crystals. It may sometimes appear slightly wet or moist due to its hygroscopic properties.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Calcium Nitric Acid Tetrahydrate

Calcium nitric acid tetrahydrate, or Ca(NO3)2·4H2O, is a fascinating chemical compound known for its remarkable solubility in water. Its solubility can be attributed to several factors:

  • Strong Ionic Nature: The ionic bonds in calcium nitrate are relatively weak compared to the interactions with water molecules, which effectively pull it apart.
  • Hydration Energy: Upon dissolving, the hydration of calcium and nitrate ions releases energy, promoting further solvation and enhancing its solubility.
  • Temperature Dependency: Its solubility increases with temperature; as the water heats up, the kinetic energy of molecules allows more calcium nitrate to dissolve.

To put it in perspective, at 20°C, the solubility of calcium nitrate is approximately 121 g per 100 mL of water, making it highly soluble. This property holds significant utility in various applications:

  • Used as a fertilizer, it ensures that plants have access to essential nutrients.
  • In various laboratory settings, its solubility allows for convenient preparation of solutions.

In summary, the solubility of calcium nitric acid tetrahydrate in water is an important characteristic that facilitates its diverse applications in agriculture and chemistry. As one might say, "The key to understanding a compound often lies in how well it dissolves!"

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Calcium Nitrate Tetrahydrate

Calcium nitrate tetrahydrate is an intriguing compound with various applications and significance in both agriculture and industry. Here are some fascinating aspects of this compound:

  • Key Ingredient in Fertilizers: Calcium nitrate is widely used as a fertilizer, providing essential nutrients—calcium and nitrogen—that promote strong plant growth.
  • Water-Soluble: Being highly soluble in water means that it can be easily absorbed by plants, making it an efficient source of nutrients.
  • Role in Soil pH: Calcium nitrate helps to maintain the proper pH level of the soil, enhancing nutrient availability. It is especially beneficial in acidic soils.
  • Hydrate Form: The tetrahydrate form of calcium nitrate indicates that it includes four molecules of water, which play a crucial role in maintaining the stability and solubility of the compound.

Applications and Benefits

This compound is not just vital for agricultural purposes; it also has several industrial uses:

  • Concrete Additive: Calcium nitrate is used in cement and concrete formulations to reduce the risk of cracking and extend the life of structures.
  • Food Preservation: In some form, it can also be utilized in food processing as a preservative.
  • Environmental Remediation: It aids in agricultural practices that contribute to the reduction of pollution and enhancement of soil quality.

One of the most fascinating characteristics of calcium nitrate tetrahydrate is its ability to help plants absorb water more efficiently, which is particularly important in regions with limited water resources. As a result, this compound is often regarded as a champion of sustainable agriculture.

In conclusion, calcium nitrate tetrahydrate presents a blend of essential agricultural benefits and industrial applications that make it an invaluable compound in various fields. Its unique properties continue to be a subject of study and innovation in the world of chemistry.

Synonyms
Dusicnan vapenaty [Czech]
UNII-O8T8H4NBBR
SCHEMBL1052364