Formation of Calcium Oxide (Quicklime)

2Ca + O₂ → 2CaO

Overview

Calcium metal reacts with oxygen to form calcium oxide, also known as quicklime. This highly exothermic reaction produces a brilliant white light, historically used in limelight theater lighting. Calcium is a reactive alkaline earth metal that readily oxidizes.

Participants

Role	Substance	Coefficient	State
Reactant	Oxygen O	1	(g)
Reactant	Calcium Ca	2	(s)
Product	Calcium Oxide CaO	2	(s)

Everyday Example

Quicklime is used in construction as a component of morite and cement, and in agriculture to raise soil pH.

Industrial Importance

Calcium oxide is produced on a massive scale for steel manufacturing, cement production, water treatment, and as a chemical feedstock. Global production exceeds 350 million tonnes annually.

Properties

Type: Synthesis
Reversible: No
Energy: Exothermic
ΔH: -1270.2 kJ/mol

Related Reactions

Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (General) Formation of Aluminum Oxide Formation of Ammonia (Haber Process) Formation of Barium Oxide Formation of Barium Sulfate Formation of Beryllium Oxide Formation of Cadmium Oxide Formation of Calcium Carbonate from Oxides Formation of Calcium Hydroxide Formation of Carbon Dioxide from Elements

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Formation of Calcium Oxide (Quicklime)?

The balanced equation is: 2Ca + O₂ → 2CaO.

What type of reaction is Formation of Calcium Oxide (Quicklime)?

Formation of Calcium Oxide (Quicklime) is a synthesis reaction.

Is Formation of Calcium Oxide (Quicklime) exothermic or endothermic?

Formation of Calcium Oxide (Quicklime) is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -1270.2 kJ/mol.