Practicing Success

Target Exam

CUET

Subject

General Test

Chapter

General Knowledge

Question:

Which of the following is commonly known as Quicklime?

Options:

CaSO4

CaCl2

Ca(OH)2

CaO

Correct Answer:

CaO

Explanation:

The correct answer is option 4. CaO.

Quicklime is the common name for calcium oxide, which has the chemical formula CaO. Here's a brief explanation:

1. CaO (Calcium Oxide): Quicklime is a white, crystalline solid that is produced by heating calcium carbonate (such as limestone) at high temperatures. The chemical equation for this process is:

\[ \text{CaCO}_3 \rightarrow \text{CaO} + \text{CO}_2 \]

2. Properties and Usage:  Quicklime is highly reactive with water and produces a strong exothermic reaction, forming calcium hydroxide (\(\text{Ca(OH)}_2\)). This reaction is utilized in various applications, such as in the construction industry for making mortar and plaster. It is also used in the steel industry, water treatment, and as a soil amendment in agriculture.

3. Not the other options:

\(\text{CaSO}_4\) is calcium sulfate (gypsum), not quicklime.

\(\text{CaCl}_2\) is calcium chloride, not quicklime.

\(\text{Ca(OH)}_2\) is calcium hydroxide (slaked lime), which is the result of adding water to quicklime.

So, among the given options, \(\text{CaO}\) is the compound commonly known as quicklime.