Fémkarbonátok

Fémkarbonátok are chemical compounds that contain a metal cation and the carbonate anion (CO3^2-). These compounds are salts derived from carbonic acid. The properties of metal carbonates vary widely depending on the specific metal involved. For example, alkali metal carbonates like sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) are generally soluble in water and have alkaline properties. In contrast, alkaline earth metal carbonates such as calcium carbonate (CaCO3), a very common mineral, are typically insoluble in water. Many transition metals also form carbonates, which can exhibit a range of colors and solubilities.

Metal carbonates are often formed through geological processes, such as the weathering of rocks or the precipitation of minerals from aqueous solutions. They can also be synthesized in laboratories through various chemical reactions, often involving the reaction of a metal oxide, hydroxide, or salt with a source of carbonate ions. A common method for producing metal carbonates is by bubbling carbon dioxide gas through a solution containing a soluble metal salt or by reacting a soluble metal salt with an alkali metal carbonate.

When heated, most metal carbonates decompose, releasing carbon dioxide gas and forming the corresponding metal oxide. The temperature at which this decomposition occurs is dependent on the specific metal. For instance, calcium carbonate decomposes at relatively high temperatures, while more reactive metals like sodium form carbonates that are very stable and do not readily decompose. This decomposition reaction is a fundamental process in the production of lime from limestone.