The balanced chemical equation representing the reaction of calcium oxide with water is: CaO + H₂O → Ca(OH)₂
This equation shows that one molecule of calcium oxide (CaO) reacts with one molecule of water (H₂O) to produce one molecule of calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂). The equation is balanced because the number of atoms of each element is the same on both the reactant (left) and product (right) sides:
- Calcium (Ca): 1 on each side
- Oxygen (O): 2 on each side
- Hydrogen (H): 2 on each side
Calcium oxide (CaO), also known as quicklime or burnt lime, is a widely used chemical compound. When it reacts with water (H₂O), it forms calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂), also known as slaked lime or hydrated lime. This reaction is highly exothermic, meaning it releases a significant amount of heat. The process is called slaking or hydration.
The product, calcium hydroxide, is a base and has many applications, including:
- Construction: Used in mortar and plaster.
- Agriculture: Used to neutralize acidic soils.
- Water treatment: Used to adjust the pH of water.
- Chemical manufacturing: Used as a reactant in various chemical processes.
