C1. Limestone and Building Materials

Limestone is mainly composed of the compound Calcium Carbonate (CaCo3)

This can be decomposed by heating (thermal decomposition) to make Calcium oxide and carbon dioxide.

The carbonates of magnesium, copper, zinc calcium and sodium react in similar ways.

Calcium oxide reacts with water to form Calcium hydroxide. (Alkali) that can be used in the netralisation of acids.

Limewater is used as a test for Carbon Dioxide. Carbon dioxide turns limewater cloudy.

A solution of Calcium Hydroxide in water (limewater) reacts with carbon dioxide to produce calcium carbonate.

Carbonates react with acids to make carbon dioxide, salt, and water. Acid rain damages limestone,

Limestone heated with clay makes cement.

Cement mixed with sand makes mortar.

Cement mixed with aggregate and sand to make concrete,