To calculate the molecular weight of CaCO3, also known as calcium carbonate, we need to sum the atomic weights of its constituent elements: calcium (Ca), carbon ©, and oxygen (O).
- Calcium (Ca): The atomic weight of calcium is approximately 40.078 g/mol.
- Carbon ©: The atomic weight of carbon is approximately 12.011 g/mol.
- Oxygen (O): The atomic weight of oxygen is approximately 15.999 g/mol. Since there are three oxygen atoms in CaCO3, we multiply the atomic weight of oxygen by 3.
Now, let’s calculate the molecular weight of CaCO3:
- Calcium (Ca): 40.078 g/mol
- Carbon ©: 12.011 g/mol
- Oxygen (O) x 3: 15.999 g/mol * 3 = 47.997 g/mol
Adding these values together gives us the molecular weight of CaCO3:
Molecular Weight of CaCO3 = 40.078 (Ca) + 12.011 © + 47.997 (3O)
Molecular Weight of CaCO3 = 100.086 g/mol
Therefore, the molecular weight of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) is approximately 100.086 g/mol. This calculation is essential in various chemical and geological applications, including understanding the composition of minerals, the properties of construction materials, and the processes involved in environmental and biological systems.
