Calcium hydroxide is an inorganic compound that can be used for a variety of purposes and also named as the slaked lime or lime water in the aqueous form. The chemical formula for the compound could be given as Ca (OH)2 with a molecular weight of 74.09 g/mol approximately.
This is an ionic compound where one calcium and metal cation are bonded together to form hydroxide anions. When it is taken in the solid form then hydroxide could be defined in the polymeric structure facilitated by the hydrogen atom between the layers. The natural occurrence of the compound can be felt in minerals, volcanic areas, or metamorphic rocks etc.
The preparation of calcium hydroxide includes mixing of calcium oxide and water together that can be prepared in aqueous form too. The chemical reaction for the same is given as below –
CaO + H2O → Ca(OH)2
This is a transparent compound or a white powder with a density of 2.21 g/cm and approximate melting point is measured as 580 degree Celsius. The compound is highly soluble in water and reacts with acids to form salts. it could combine with metals as well like aluminum. Further, it could be prepared by carbonation process as well for industrial usage. This is quite a non-toxic compound aids in digestion and could be taken as the baking soda substitute too.
The compound is not toxic at low concentrations but it could be irritated if taken in high concentrations or swallowed in an excess amount.