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Carbonate

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Identification
Molecular formula
CO32-
CAS number
3812-32-6
IUPAC name
carbonate
State
State

At room temperature, carbonate ions exist in various compounds primarily as solid minerals. Common examples include calcium carbonate (calcite or limestone) and sodium carbonate, which are crystalline solids.

Melting point (Celsius)
-1.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
-1.00
Boiling point (Celsius)
-1.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
-1.00
General information
Molecular weight
60.01g/mol
Molar mass
60.0090g/mol
Density
2.7100g/cm3
Appearence

Carbonate minerals are typically white, colorless or pale in color. They may appear as transparent to translucent crystals. The texture can vary from fine-grained to coarse-grained, often forming cubic or rhombohedral shapes.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Carbonate Compounds

Carbonate compounds, characterized by the presence of the CO32- ion, display varying solubility in water. The solubility generally depends on the specific metal cation that balances the negative charge of the carbonate anion. Here are some key points regarding their solubility:

  • Soluble Carbonates: Sodium carbonate (Na2CO3), potassium carbonate (K2CO3), and ammonium carbonate ((NH4)2CO3) are highly soluble in water.
  • Insoluble Carbonates: Many metal carbonates, such as barium carbonate (BaCO3), lead(II) carbonate (PbCO3), and calcium carbonate (CaCO3), have low solubility, making their aqueous solutions less favorable.
  • Temperature Effect: For some carbonates, such as calcium carbonate, solubility increases with temperature, while others may not exhibit a significant temperature relationship.
  • pH Influence: The solubility can also change depending on the pH of the solution. For example, in acidic conditions, carbonates react with acids to produce carbon dioxide gas, increasing their effective solubility.

In summary, the solubility of carbonate compounds varies significantly and is influenced by factors such as the nature of the cation, temperature, and pH levels. As such, understanding these factors is crucial for predicting the behavior of carbonates in various chemical contexts.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Carbonate Compounds

The term "carbonate" refers to a fascinating group of chemical compounds that contain the carbonate anion, CO32-. Carbonates play vital roles in various natural and industrial processes.

Natural Occurrence

Carbonates are commonly found in nature and are essential components in geological formations. Here are some highlights:

  • Formation of Minerals: Carbonates contribute significantly to the formation of sedimentary rocks, such as limestone and dolomite.
  • Environmental Impact: They are crucial in regulating the carbon cycle and help buffer acidity in oceans, maintaining the health of aquatic ecosystems.
  • Fossil Record: Fossilized remains of marine organisms often incorporate carbonate minerals, helping scientists understand ancient climates and environments.

Industrial Applications

Carbonate compounds have wide-ranging industrial uses, showcasing their versatility:

  • Manufacturing: They are key ingredients in the production of glass, cement, and ceramics.
  • Food Industry: Carbonates, such as sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), play roles in baking and as antacids for digestive health.
  • Water Treatment: Calcium carbonate is used to treat acidic water, enhancing water quality for consumption.

Interesting Properties

Some distinctive features of carbonates include:

  • Reaction with Acids: Carbonates readily react with acids to produce carbon dioxide gas, a characteristic that can be used in various applications, such as in fire extinguishers.
  • Stability: Many carbonates are thermally stable, allowing their use in high-temperature environments.

As a closing note, the study of carbonates opens up a world of understanding not only in chemistry but also in geology, environmental science, and food technology. Carbonates are truly a bridge between inorganic chemistry and numerous aspects of our daily lives.

Synonyms
carbonate
CARBONATE ION
3812-32-6
Carbonate ions
Karbonat
UNII-7UJQ5OPE7D
7UJQ5OPE7D
trioxidocarbonate(2-)
CO3(2-)
CHEBI:41609
DTXSID70872973
CO3
(CO3)(2-)
[CO3](2-)
DTXCID90820491
Carbonates
CARBONATE [WHO-DD]
CHEMBL180485
BDBM26987
STL264244
AKOS022141799
DB14531
NS00076476
Q27104479