Quicklime Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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quicklime
[ˈkwɪk.laɪm ]
Definition
chemical compound
Quicklime, also known as calcium oxide, is a white, caustic, alkaline crystalline solid at room temperature. It is produced by heating limestone (calcium carbonate) in a process known as calcination. Quicklime is highly reactive and is used in various industrial processes, including the production of cement and in water treatment.
Synonyms
calcined lime, calcium oxide.
Examples of usage
- The construction industry utilizes quicklime to produce mortar.
- Quicklime is effective in neutralizing acidic water.
- Farmers often use quicklime to improve soil quality.
- During the 19th century, quicklime was commonly used in building projects.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- Quicklime, or calcium oxide, reacts vigorously with water, producing calcium hydroxide and releasing heat, a process known as slaking.
- This chemical reaction is highly exothermic, showcasing why safety precautions are essential when handling quicklime.
Historical Use
- In ancient Egypt, quicklime was used in mummification processes and as part of the construction of the pyramids.
- During the 19th century, quicklime was a critical ingredient in producing mortar for building structures, underscoring its historical significance in architecture.
Agriculture
- Farmers use quicklime to improve soil quality, particularly to neutralize acidic soils, helping crops grow better.
- It's also used as a disinfectant in animal husbandry, as its strong properties can kill bacteria in barn settings.
Environment
- Quicklime plays a vital role in water treatment processes by removing impurities and contaminants, helping to ensure clean drinking water.
- In industrial applications, quicklime helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions when added to processes that produce cement and lime.
Origin of 'quicklime'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'quick' in quicklime comes from the Old English 'cwic,' meaning 'living' or 'alive', referring to its caustic or reactive properties.
- Lime has been used since ancient times, with the term itself derived from the Middle English word 'lym' or 'lime', referring to the calcium oxide compound.
The term 'quicklime' originates from the Middle English word 'quik' meaning 'alive' or 'living', which reflects the compound's highly reactive nature when it comes in contact with water. The 'lime' part comes from the Old French 'lime', which itself derives from the Latin 'calx', meaning 'lime' or 'lime stone'. Quicklime has been used since ancient times, primarily for its ability to absorb moisture and carbon dioxide from the air, leading to its application in construction and metallurgy. The process of producing quicklime from limestone involves heating the stone to temperatures around 900 to 1000 degrees Celsius, a practice that was well-known to ancient civilizations such as the Romans and the Chinese, who utilized it for building materials and agricultural purposes. Through the centuries, its applications have expanded, solidifying its importance in various industries worldwide.