No, pure calcium is not white. Under standard conditions, pure calcium is a shiny, silvery metal.
Calcium's Appearance Explained
- Initial Appearance: When freshly cut, calcium exhibits a bright silver color.
- Reaction with Air: Upon exposure to air, calcium rapidly reacts with oxygen, forming a gray-white oxide layer on its surface. This oxide layer is what often gives calcium a white or grayish-white appearance.
- Softness and Density: Calcium is a relatively soft metal and the lightest of the alkaline earth metals.
In Summary
While calcium is a silvery metal when pure, it quickly tarnishes and forms a gray-white oxide coating upon exposure to air, often leading to the misconception that it is white.
