Calcium carbonate is a chemical compound with the chemical formula CaCO3. It is a common substance found in rocks as the minerals calcite and aragonite, most notably in chalk and limestone, eggshells, gastropod shells, shellfish skeletons, and pearls. Calcium carbonate is the active ingredient in agricultural lime and is produced when calcium ions in hard water react with carbonate ions to form limescale. It has medical use as a calcium supplement or as an antacid, but excessive consumption can be hazardous and cause hypercalcemia and digestive issues.
Here are some additional details about calcium carbonate:
- Chemical formula: CaCO3
- Synonyms: Calcio carbonato, Calciumcarbonat, Carbonate de calcium, Carbonato de calcio, Chalk, Kalziumkarbonat, Kohlensaurer kalk, Precipitated calcium carbonate
- Role: Antacid, food coloring, food firming agent, fertilizer
- Inactive ingredients: Some brands of calcium carbonate may contain inactive ingredients such as milk or dairy products, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems
- Interactions: Calcium carbonate can decrease the absorption of other drugs, such as tetracycline antibiotics, bisphosphonates, and iron
- Potential for reducing carbon dioxide emissions: Calcium carbonate can be produced from calcium silicates and carbon dioxide, which could potentially reduce carbon dioxide emissions from the pulp and paper industry
In summary, calcium carbonate is a chemical compound with various uses, including as an antacid and a fertilizer. It is commonly found in rocks and shells and can be produced from calcium silicates and carbon dioxide. Some brands of calcium carbonate may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other problems, and it can decrease the absorption of other drugs.
