Question

Write one use of quicklime?

Answer 1

To manufacture slaked lime `[Ca(OH)_2]` for the treatment of excess acidity in soil.

Explanation:

Quicklime is the common name for calcium oxide `(CaO)`. This can be made from the thermal decomposition of limestone (calcium carbonate). The full reaction is:

`CaCO_3(s)stackrel(Delta)->CaO(s)+CO_2(g)`

As you can see, quicklime is produced. By itself, it is basic in nature, and can be used to treat water, and also to make glass.

See here: https://sciencestruck.com/quicklime-uses

Another thing is that it can be used to make slaked lime, or calcium hydroxide, which has a chemical formula of `Ca(OH)_2`. This is made by a very simple reaction where quicklime is mixed with water.

The chemical equation is:

`CaO(s)+H_2O(l)->Ca(OH)_2(aq)`

This compound is also very basic, and is therefore used as a fertilizer for treating soil, when its `"pH"` is too low.