Lime water is prepared by dissolving calcium hydroxide in water. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:
Step-by-step Guide to Preparing Lime Water:
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Combine ingredients | Add 5 grams of solid calcium hydroxide to 2 litres of water. |
| 2 | Stir thoroughly | Mix the solution well to ensure the calcium hydroxide starts dissolving in the water. |
| 3 | Transfer to a suitable container | Pour the mixture into a screw-top amber bottle. Amber bottles help protect the solution from light. |
| 4 | Label the bottle | Clearly label the bottle with the content to prevent accidental misuse. |
| 5 | Mix periodically | Invert the bottle several times over the course of a couple of days to ensure the mixture is well-mixed. |
| 6 | Decant clear solution | After the solid settles to the bottom, carefully pour off the clear liquid solution, leaving the residue behind. |
Understanding the Process:
- Calcium Hydroxide: Lime water is a solution of calcium hydroxide in water. Calcium hydroxide is a solid at room temperature.
- Solubility: Calcium hydroxide is only slightly soluble in water. This means only a small amount of it will dissolve, and a large portion will remain as a solid.
- Amber Bottle: Amber glass is used because it blocks ultraviolet and visible light, which can degrade some chemical solutions.
- Mixing: Inverting the bottle helps to make sure that calcium hydroxide is properly dissolved.
- Decanting: This is a process of separating the liquid (lime water) from the undissolved solid.
Key Considerations:
- It's important to allow the mixture sufficient time to settle before decanting to ensure the lime water is clear and free from any solid particles.
