calciumkarbonaatista

Calcium carbonate, or calciumkarbonaatista in Finnish, is a chemical compound with the formula CaCO3. It is a ubiquitous substance found in nature and widely used in various industries. Its most common natural forms are chalk, limestone, and marble, which are all types of sedimentary rocks. Aragonite and calcite are the two most common mineral polymorphs of calcium carbonate.

Calcium carbonate plays a significant role in biological systems. It is the main component of shells and skeletons of many marine organisms, including mollusks, corals, and crustaceans. In humans and other vertebrates, it is the primary mineral constituent of bones and teeth, providing strength and structure.

Industrially, calcium carbonate is a versatile material. It is extensively used as a filler in plastics, paints, and paper, improving their opacity and brightness. In the construction industry, it is a key ingredient in cement and concrete. It also serves as a dietary supplement to provide calcium, essential for bone health, and as an antacid to neutralize stomach acid. Furthermore, it finds applications in agriculture as a soil conditioner to reduce acidity and in water treatment to remove impurities. Its low cost, abundance, and non-toxic nature contribute to its widespread use.