Zinc carbonate (ZnCO3) is a white, odorless solid formed by zinc reacting with carbonate ions. It’s used in various applications, like ceramics and pharmaceuticals, due to its unique properties.
| IUPAC Name | Zinc Carbonate |
| Molecular Formula | ZnCO3 |
| CAS Number | 3486-35-9 |
| Synonyms | Zinc(II) Carbonate; Smithsonite; Zinci carbonas; Zincous Carbonate |
| InChI | InChI=1S/CH2O3.Zn/c2-1(3)4;/h(H2,2,3,4);/q;+2/p-2 |
Zinc Carbonate Properties
Zinc Carbonate Formula
The chemical formula of zincous carbonate is ZnCO3. It consists of one zinc (Zn) atom, one carbon (C) atom, and three oxygen (O) atoms. This compound is a white, odorless solid and is commonly found in nature as the mineral smithsonite.
Zinc Carbonate Molar Mass
The molar mass of zincous carbonate can be calculated by adding the atomic masses of its constituent elements. Zinc has a molar mass of approximately 65.38 g/mol, carbon has 12.01 g/mol, and oxygen has 16.00 g/mol (approx.). So, the molar mass of zincous carbonate is around 125.38 g/mol.
Zinc Carbonate Boiling Point
Zincous carbonate does not have a distinct boiling point because it decomposes upon heating, releasing carbon dioxide and leaving behind zinc oxide (ZnO). However, it is stable up to temperatures around 300°C.
Zinc Carbonate Melting Point
The melting point of zincous carbonate is approximately 333°C (approx.). At this temperature, zincous carbonate undergoes thermal decomposition and forms zinc oxide and carbon dioxide.
Zinc Carbonate Density g/mL
The density of zincous carbonate is around 4.398 g/mL (approx.). This value indicates that zincous carbonate is a relatively dense solid compared to many other compounds.
Zinc Carbonate Molecular Weight
The molecular weight of zincous carbonate, also known as its molar mass, is approximately 125.38 g/mol. It is the mass of one mole of zincous carbonate molecules and is used in various chemical calculations.
Zinc Carbonate Structure
Zincous carbonate has a trigonal crystal structure. The zinc cation (Zn2+) is surrounded by carbonate anions (CO32-) in a trigonal planar arrangement. This arrangement gives zincous carbonate its unique physical and chemical properties.
Zinc Carbonate Solubility
Zincous carbonate is sparingly soluble in water. Its solubility decreases with decreasing temperature and increasing pH. It can also dissolve in acidic solutions due to the formation of soluble zinc salts. However, it forms insoluble precipitates in the presence of carbonates or hydroxides.
| Appearance | White solid |
| Specific Gravity | 4.398 g/mL (approx.) |
| Color | White |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Molar Mass | 125.38 g/mol |
| Density | 4.398 g/mL (approx.) |
| Melting Point | 333°C (approx.) |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes |
| Flash Point | Not applicable |
| Water Solubility | Sparingly soluble |
| Solubility | Insoluble in most solvents, can also dissolve in acidic solutions |
| Vapor Pressure | Not available |
| Vapor Density | Not available |
| pKa | Not available |
| pH | Slightly alkaline (approx. 8-9) |
Zinc Carbonate Safety and Hazards
Zincous carbonate poses some safety hazards that require attention. It can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system upon contact or inhalation. Avoid ingestion as it may cause gastrointestinal distress. When handling, wear appropriate personal protective equipment, like gloves and goggles, to prevent direct contact. Store zincous carbonate in a cool, dry place away from incompatible substances. In case of accidental ingestion or exposure, seek medical assistance immediately. Additionally, follow proper waste disposal procedures for this compound to minimize environmental impact. Proper handling and storage practices are crucial to ensure safe usage of zincous carbonate in various applications.
| Hazard Symbols | None |
| Safety Description | Harmful if ingested or inhaled. Irritating to skin and eyes. Avoid contact. Use with proper ventilation. |
| UN IDs | Not applicable |
| HS Code | 28369900 |
| Hazard Class | Not classified |
| Packing Group | Not applicable |
| Toxicity | Low to moderate toxicity |
Zinc Carbonate Synthesis Methods
Zincous carbonate can be synthesized using various methods. One common approach involves reacting zinc oxide (ZnO) with carbon dioxide (CO2) in the presence of water or a suitable solvent. The reaction can be carried out at a controlled temperature and pressure to promote the formation of zincous carbonate.
Another method involves the reaction of zinc chloride (ZnCl2) or zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) with sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) or potassium carbonate (K2CO3) in an aqueous solution. This process forms zincous carbonate as a precipitate, which can be separated and collected.
Furthermore, zincous carbonate can be obtained by the carbonation of zinc hydroxide (Zn(OH)2) or zinc oxide with carbon dioxide, either in gaseous form or dissolved in water.
In industrial settings, zincous carbonate is often produced as a byproduct of zinc processing or as a result of reactions involving zinc-containing materials.
It is essential to ensure the proper stoichiometry and reaction conditions during synthesis to obtain a pure and high-quality product. The choice of method depends on factors such as the availability of reactants, the desired purity of the product, and the intended application of zincous carbonate.
Zinc Carbonate Uses
Zincous carbonate finds diverse applications across various industries due to its unique properties. Here are some notable uses:
- Ceramics: Zincous carbonate actively lowers the melting point of materials and enhances their gloss and transparency when utilized as a fluxing agent in ceramic glazes.
- Pharmaceuticals: In medicinal applications, zincous carbonate serves as an active ingredient in some antiseptic and astringent formulations.
- Paints: Zincous carbonate actively functions as a white pigment in paints and coatings, providing brightness and excellent covering ability.
- Rubber Industry: In the vulcanization process, zincous carbonate acts as an accelerator, actively enhancing the mechanical properties of rubber products.
- Textile Industry: As a mordant, zincous carbonate actively improves dye retention on fabrics during the dyeing process.
- Electronics: Zincous carbonate finds active application in electronic components and as a coating material for semiconductors, thanks to its electrical properties.
- Agriculture: Zincous carbonate actively functions as a fungicide and mildew preventive agent for crops.
- Glass Manufacturing: In the glass manufacturing process, zincous carbonate acts as a fluxing agent, actively lowering the melting point of glass and improving its clarity.
- Animal Feed Additive: Manufacturers actively add zincous carbonate to animal feeds as a crucial source of essential zinc, which actively supports the overall health of livestock.
- Water Treatment: Water treatment facilities actively utilize zincous carbonate in their processes to actively control pH levels and actively remove heavy metal impurities.
The versatility of zincous carbonate in various industries highlights its significance as a valuable compound with a wide range of practical applications.
Questions:
Q: Is ZnCO3 soluble in water?
A: Zincous carbonate is sparingly soluble in water.
Q: Which reaction will most likely take place? Pt + FeCl3 Mn + CaO Li + ZnCO3 Cu + 2KNO3
A: The most likely reaction to take place is Li + ZnCO3.
Q: What mass of ZnCO3 contains 3.11×10^22 O atoms?
A: The mass of ZnCO3 containing 3.11×10^22 O atoms can be calculated based on the molar mass and stoichiometry of the compound.
Q: What is the name of ZnCO3?
A: The name of ZnCO3 is Zinc Carbonate.
Q: Which one of the following compounds is soluble in water? Cu3(PO4)2, CoS, Pb(NO3)2, ZnCO3?
A: ZnCO3 is sparingly soluble in water.
Q: What type of bond forms between ZnCO3?
A: Ionic bonds form between ZnCO3.
Q: Is zinc carbonate soluble in water?
A: Zincous carbonate is sparingly soluble in water.
Q: What is a carbon-zinc battery?
A: A carbon-zinc battery is a type of dry cell battery that uses a zinc anode and a carbon cathode with an electrolyte paste.
Q: How does an alkaline cell differ from a zinc-carbon dry cell?
A: Alkaline cells have a higher energy density and longer life compared to zinc-carbon dry cells due to the use of an alkaline electrolyte.
Q: What is the difference between carbon-zinc and alkaline batteries?
A: Carbon-zinc batteries have a lower energy capacity and shorter lifespan compared to alkaline batteries due to differences in electrolyte and construction.
Q: Can you use carbon-zinc batteries instead of alkaline?
A: Yes, but carbon-zinc batteries may have shorter lifespans and are less suitable for high-drain devices compared to alkaline batteries.