Chemical Properties of Limestone
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Chemical Formula: The primary component of limestone is calcium carbonate, which has the chemical formula CaCO₃.
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Reaction with Hydrochloric Acid: Limestone reacts readily with hydrochloric acid (HCl). When limestone is exposed to HCl, it produces carbon dioxide gas, leading to the formation of bubbles. The chemical reaction can be represented as:
\[ \text{CaCO}_3 (s) + 2\text{HCl} (aq) \rightarrow \text{CaCl}_2 (aq) + \text{H}_2\text{O} (l) + \text{CO}_2 (g) \]
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Magnetic Properties: Limestone is not magnetic. It does not exhibit any magnetic properties and will not be attracted to a magnet.
These chemical properties make limestone distinguishable and useful in various applications, including construction, agriculture, and the production of lime.