The Limestone Cycle

The Limestone cycle is a key topic in GCSE Chemistry. We start with one of three forms of calcium carbonate, Chalk, Limestone or Marble. When Limestone is heated it undergoes thermal decomposition and releases CO2. We weigh the Limestone before and after to see the weight loss. The colour changes in the Limestone from Grey to the white of Calcium Oxide or Quicklime. When water is added to the Calcium oxide, heat is given out and Slaked Lime is formed. This is dissolved in water to give Limewater. The Limewater is tested by blowing CO2 in it. The limewater turns cloudy. This is a precipitate of Calcium Carbonate. The Limestone cycle is complete. http://www.hemelprivatetuition.co.uk