The appearance of calcium carbonate is generally that of a white powder or stone. A characteristic quality of calcium carbonate is that it will fizz and release carbon dioxide upon contact with a strong acid, such as hydrochloric acid. After the carbon dioxide is released, the remainder is calcium oxide (CaO), commonly called quicklime.
When calcium carbonate comes into contact with water saturated with carbon dioxide, it forms a soluble compound, calcium bicarbonate. Underground, this often leads to the formation of caves. The reaction is as follows:
CaCO3 + CO2 + H2O → Ca(HCO3)2
Calcium carbonate becomes marble when highly compressed and heated deep underneath the Earth’s surface. In caves, when temporarily dissolved by the above chemical mechanism, calcium carbonate creates magnificent speleothems:” cave formations such as stalagmites, stalagmites, curtains, and dozens of others.
calcium hydroxide + carbon dioxide
calcium carbonate + water.
Ca(OH)2(aq) + CO2(g)
CaCO3(s) + H2O(l)
Ca(OH)2(aq) + CO2(g)