Calcium acetate (Ca(C2H3O2)2) is a compound made up of calcium and acetic acid. It is commonly used as a medication to reduce phosphate levels in people with kidney disease.
| IUPAC Name | Calcium acetate |
| Molecular Formula | Ca(C2H3O2)2 |
| CAS Number | 62-54-4 |
| Synonyms | Acetic acid, calcium salt; Acetate de calcium (French); Calcium diacetate; Calcium ethanoate; E263 |
| InChI | InChI=1S/2C2H4O2.Ca/c21-2(3)4;/h21H3,(H,3,4);/q;;+2/p-2 |
Calcium Acetate Properties
Calcium Acetate Formula
The formula of calcium acetate is Ca(C2H3O2)2. This formula indicates that one mole of calcium acetate contains one mole of calcium ions (Ca2+) and two moles of acetate ions (C2H3O2-). The formula of calcium acetate is essential in determining the stoichiometry of chemical reactions involving this compound.
Calcium Acetate Molar Mass
The molar mass of Ca(C2H3O2)2 is 158.17 g/mol. This value represents the mass of one mole of Ca(C2H3O2)2, which is equal to its molecular weight. The molar mass is a crucial parameter in determining the stoichiometry of chemical reactions involving Ca(C2H3O2)2. This value is calculated by adding the atomic masses of all the atoms present in one mole of Ca(C2H3O2)2.
Calcium Acetate Boiling Point
The boiling point of Ca(C2H3O2)2 is 160°C (320°F). This value indicates the temperature at which Ca(C2H3O2)2 changes its state from a liquid to a gas. The boiling point of Ca(C2H3O2)2 is significantly higher than that of water, which boils at 100°C (212°F). This high boiling point is due to the ionic nature of Ca(C2H3O2)2 and its strong intermolecular forces.
Calcium Acetate Melting Point
The melting point of Ca(C2H3O2)2 is 160-170°C (320-338°F). This value indicates the temperature at which Ca(C2H3O2)2 changes its state from a solid to a liquid. The melting point of Ca(C2H3O2)2 is slightly higher than that of water, which melts at 0°C (32°F). The high melting point of Ca(C2H3O2)2 is due to the ionic nature of the compound and its strong intermolecular forces.
Calcium Acetate Density g/mL
The density of Ca(C2H3O2)2 is 1.5 g/mL. This value indicates the mass of Ca(C2H3O2)2 present in one milliliter of its solution. The density of Ca(C2H3O2)2 is higher than that of water, which has a density of 1 g/mL. The high density of Ca(C2H3O2)2 is due to its ionic nature and the presence of calcium ions in the compound.
Calcium Acetate Molecular Weight
The molecular weight of Ca(C2H3O2)2 is 158.17 g/mol. This value represents the sum of the atomic weights of all the atoms present in one molecule of Ca(C2H3O2)2. The molecular weight is a critical parameter in determining the properties of Ca(C2H3O2)2 and its behavior in chemical reactions.
Calcium Acetate Structure
The structure of Ca(C2H3O2)2 is an ionic compound in which Ca2+ ions are surrounded by two C2H3O2- ions. The C2H3O2- ions act as bidentate ligands and form coordination bonds with the Ca2+ ions. The structure of Ca(C2H3O2)2 is crystalline and has a cubic shape.
| Appearance | White crystalline powder |
| Specific Gravity | 1.5 g/mL |
| Color | White |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Molar Mass | 158.17 g/mol |
| Density | 1.5 g/mL |
| Melting Point | 160-170°C (320-338°F) |
| Boiling Point | 160°C (320°F) |
| Flash Point | Not applicable |
| Water Solubility | Soluble |
| Solubility | Soluble in water, ethanol, and acetone |
| Vapour Pressure | Not applicable |
| Vapour Density | Not applicable |
| pKa | 9.24 |
| pH | 7-8 (5% solution) |
Calcium Acetate Safety and Hazards
Ca(C2H3O2)2 is generally considered safe when used as directed. However, exposure to large quantities of Ca(C2H3O2)2 can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Ingestion of large amounts of Ca(C2H3O2)2 can lead to stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is important to handle Ca(C2H3O2)2 with care and avoid inhaling or ingesting the substance. Ca(C2H3O2)2 may also pose a risk to the environment, particularly aquatic life, and should be disposed of properly. As with all chemicals, it is important to read and follow the safety instructions on the label and use appropriate protective equipment when handling Ca(C2H3O2)2.
| Hazard Symbols | None |
| Safety Description | Avoid inhalation, ingestion, and contact with skin and eyes. Use in a well-ventilated area and wear appropriate protective equipment. |
| UN IDs | Not applicable |
| HS Code | 291529 |
| Hazard Class | Not classified as hazardous according to OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200). |
| Packing Group | Not applicable |
| Toxicity | Low toxicity. May cause skin and eye irritation. Ingestion of large amounts may cause gastrointestinal upset. |
Calcium Acetate Synthesis Methods
A variety of methods can synthesize Ca(C2H3O2)2.
One common method involves the reaction of calcium carbonate with acetic acid. Add calcium carbonate to a solution of acetic acid and heat the mixture under reflux. Filter the mixture and let the filtrate cool and crystallize to form Ca(C2H3O2)2.
Another method involves the reaction of calcium hydroxide with acetic acid. Add calcium hydroxide to a solution of acetic acid. Stir and heat the mixture to obtain a clear solution. Filter the solution and let the filtrate cool and crystallize to form Ca(C2H3O2)2.
Another method involves the reaction of calcium oxide with acetic acid. Add calcium oxide to a solution of acetic acid. Stir and heat the mixture to obtain a clear solution. Filter the solution and let the filtrate cool and crystallize to form Ca(C2H3O2)2.
The choice of synthesis method may depend on factors such as the desired yield and purity of the product, as well as the specific application for which the Ca(C2H3O2)2 will be used.
Calcium Acetate Uses
Ca(C2H3O2)2 has several applications in various fields. Here are some common uses of Ca(C2H3O2)2:
- Food Additive: Used as a food additive, particularly in baked goods, to improve texture and extend shelf life.
- Medicinal Applications: Used as a medication for the treatment of high blood phosphate levels in patients with chronic kidney disease. It works by binding with phosphate in the food and preventing its absorption by the body.
- Water Treatment: Used in the treatment of water to reduce the levels of lead and other heavy metals.
- Laboratory Reagent: Used as a reagent in laboratories for various chemical reactions.
- Antifungal Agent: Also used as an antifungal agent in the treatment of certain skin infections.
- Concrete Accelerator: Used as a concrete accelerator, which helps to speed up the setting process of concrete.
- Flame Retardant: Used as a flame retardant in various materials, including plastics and textiles.
Questions:
Q: Is calcium acetate acidic, basic, or neutral?
A: Ca(C2H3O2)2 is a basic compound.
Q: Is calcium acetate soluble in water?
A: Yes, Ca(C2H3O2)2 is soluble in water.
Q: How to make calcium acetate?
A: Ca(C2H3O2)2 can be made through various methods, including reacting calcium carbonate or calcium hydroxide with acetic acid. The resulting mixture is then filtered, and the filtrate is allowed to cool and crystallize, forming Ca(C2H3O2)2.
Q: Where to buy calcium acetate?
A: Ca(C2H3O2)2 can be purchased from chemical suppliers, laboratory supply stores, and online retailers.
Q: Is calcium acetate ionic or covalent?
A: Ca(C2H3O2)2 is an ionic compound, consisting of calcium cations and acetate anions held together by ionic bonds.