Q:
What Is the Chemical Formula for Chalk?
A:
Quick Answer
The most common chemical formulas for chalk are CaCO3 (calcium carbonate) and CaO (calcium oxide). Chalk is a soft, porous sedimentary rock that is a form of limestone and is mainly composed of calcite (calcium carbonate).
Continue Reading
Credit:
AFP/Getty Images
AFP
Getty Images
Full Answer
Chalk forms under deep marine conditions, when micro-organisms called coccolithophores shed calcite plates and these tiny plates accumulate. Chalk has high resistance to weathering and can form tall cliffs where chalk ridges connect with the sea.
Chalk is used in agriculture to raise the pH in highly acidic soils. In small doses chalk can be used as an antacid. Toothpaste often contains small amounts of chalk because of its usefulness as a mild abrasive.
Learn more about ChemistryRelated Questions
-
Q:
What Is Chalk Made From?
A: Blackboard and sidewalk chalk can be made from either calcium carbonate (CaCO3) or calcium sulfate, also known as gypsum (CaSO4. Calcium carbonate is forme... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How Are Chemical Formulas Named?
A: Chemical formulas are named based on the number and type of atoms in the chemical. In chemical formulas of two atoms with opposite charges, the first eleme... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Is the Difference in Ferrous Fumarate and Ferrous Sulfate?
A: Ferrous fumarate and ferrous sulfate are both iron-based supplements with slightly differing chemical formulas. They are both commonly taken as dietary sup... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How Do You Write Chemical Formulas?
A: According to the University of Waterloo, chemical formulas are categorized into empirical, molecular and structural formulas, which display the chemical of... Full Answer >Filed Under:
