calciums

Calciums is not a standardized term in chemistry. It may be used informally to refer to calcium-containing substances, particularly calcium salts and compounds. The element calcium (Ca) is a reactive, silvery-white alkaline earth metal in group 2 of the periodic table. It is the fifth most abundant element by mass in the Earth's crust and is essential for many biological processes.

Calcium forms a wide range of compounds with various anions. Common calcium compounds include calcium carbonate (CaCO3), calcium chloride (CaCl2), calcium sulfate (CaSO4), calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2), and calcium oxide (CaO). Calcium salts vary in solubility: carbonate and sulfate forms are often sparingly soluble, while chlorides are highly soluble. Calcium phosphate minerals, such as hydroxyapatite, are major components of bone and teeth.

Applications of calcium compounds are broad. In industry and construction, calcium carbonate is used as a filler and in cement, while calcium oxide and calcium hydroxide are used in lime production and soil treatment. In medicine and nutrition, calcium carbonate and calcium citrate are common dietary supplements. In agriculture, calcium carbonate and calcium sulfate help adjust soil pH and supply calcium to plants. In environmental contexts, calcium ions contribute to buffering of ocean chemistry and influence groundwater hardness.

Natural occurrence: Calcium is abundant in minerals such as limestone, chalk, and gypsum. It occurs in minerals including calcite, aragonite, and fluorite, where calcium is the dominant cation.

Health and safety: Calcium compounds vary in hazard potential; many are irritants or corrosive in concentrated forms. Proper handling and protective equipment are advised when working with concentrated materials.