Calcium Hydroxide and Sulfuric Acid
Ca(OH)2 + H2SO4 → CaSO4 + 2H2O
Overview
Calcium hydroxide reacts with sulfuric acid to form calcium sulfate and water. The product calcium sulfate is a sparingly soluble salt that partially precipitates. This reaction produces gypsum (calcium sulfate dihydrate), one of the most important construction materials.
Participants
| Role | Substance | Coefficient | State |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reactant | Calcium Hydroxide Ca(OH)₂ | 1 | (s) |
| Reactant | Sulfuric Acid H₂SO₄ | 1 | (aq) |
| Product | Calcium Sulfate CaSO₄ | 1 | (s) |
| Product | Water H₂O | 2 | (l) |
Everyday Example
Gypsum board (drywall) used in virtually every modern building is made from calcium sulfate, which can be produced by this type of reaction.
Industrial Importance
Calcium sulfate (gypsum) is used in drywall, plaster, cement retarder, and as a food additive. Flue gas desulfurization uses lime to react with SO2, producing gypsum as a byproduct.
Properties
- Type
- Double Replacement
- Reversible
- No
- Energy
- Exothermic
- ΔH
- -109.0 kJ/mol
Related Reactions
Aluminum Hydroxide and Hydrochloric Acid
Ammonia and Hydrochloric Acid (White Smoke)
Barium Chloride and Sodium Sulfate Precipitation
Calcium Carbonate and Hydrochloric Acid
Calcium Chloride and Sodium Carbonate
Calcium Hydroxide and Carbon Dioxide (Limewater Test)
Copper(II) Sulfate and Sodium Hydroxide
Iron(III) Chloride and Sodium Hydroxide
Lead Nitrate and Potassium Iodide (Golden Rain)
Magnesium Hydroxide and Hydrochloric Acid (Antacid)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the equation for Calcium Hydroxide and Sulfuric Acid?
The balanced equation is: Ca(OH)₂ + H₂SO₄ → CaSO₄ + 2H₂O.
What type of reaction is Calcium Hydroxide and Sulfuric Acid?
Calcium Hydroxide and Sulfuric Acid is a double replacement reaction.
Is Calcium Hydroxide and Sulfuric Acid exothermic or endothermic?
Calcium Hydroxide and Sulfuric Acid is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -109.0 kJ/mol.