Carbonatmetalle

Carbonatmetalle, also known as metal carbonates, are chemical compounds that contain a metal cation bonded to the carbonate anion (CO3^2-). These compounds are widespread in nature and play significant roles in various geological, biological, and industrial processes. Common examples include calcium carbonate (CaCO3), found in rocks like limestone and marble, and magnesium carbonate (MgCO3), a component of the mineral magnesite.

Metal carbonates are typically formed through reactions involving metal oxides or hydroxides with carbon dioxide, or through precipitation from aqueous solutions containing metal ions and carbonate ions. Many metal carbonates are insoluble or sparingly soluble in water, which contributes to their geological prevalence. Upon heating, most metal carbonates decompose to form the corresponding metal oxide and carbon dioxide gas. This decomposition reaction is utilized in various industrial processes, such as the production of cement from limestone.

In biological systems, calcium carbonate is crucial for the formation of shells and skeletons in many marine organisms, including corals, mollusks, and crustaceans. It also plays a role in buffering biological fluids. Industrially, metal carbonates are employed as raw materials in the production of cement, glass, ceramics, and as fillers in plastics and paper. Their properties, such as hardness, stability, and reactivity, make them versatile compounds with diverse applications.