calciumfluoride
Calcium fluoride (CaF2) is an inorganic compound that occurs naturally as the mineral fluorite (fluorspar). It is a white, crystalline solid at room temperature and forms cubic crystals with relatively low solubility in water. Impurities can impart a range of colors, giving specimens that are colorless or colored.
Chemically, calcium fluoride consists of calcium ions Ca2+ and fluoride ions F− in a 1:2 ratio. It
Occurrence and production: Calcium fluoride occurs in hydrothermal veins and is the primary component of the
Uses: The principal applications are as a flux in metallurgical processes (to remove silica) and as a
Safety: Calcium fluoride is largely insoluble and has low acute toxicity, but fluoride ions can be hazardous