tojáshéjának

tojáshéjának is a Hungarian term that translates to "egg shell" in English. It refers to the outer protective covering of an egg, typically laid by birds, reptiles, insects, and other oviparous animals. The primary function of the eggshell is to protect the developing embryo from physical damage and microbial contamination.

Eggshells are primarily composed of calcium carbonate (CaCO3), a crystalline mineral. This material provides the shell with its characteristic hardness and rigidity. The shell also contains a small percentage of other organic and inorganic components, including proteins, magnesium, and phosphate.

The structure of an eggshell is complex, featuring an outer layer called the cuticle, which is a thin, proteinaceous film that helps prevent bacterial invasion. Beneath the cuticle are the shell membranes, which provide an additional barrier. The bulk of the shell is made up of prismatic and mammillary layers, both rich in calcium carbonate. Finally, within the shell membranes are the air cells, which form at the blunt end of the egg as it cools after being laid.

In various cultures and contexts, eggshells have found practical uses beyond their biological role. They are sometimes used as a source of calcium in animal feed or as a natural fertilizer in gardening due to their calcium content. In some folk traditions, crushed eggshells have been used for medicinal or decorative purposes. The fragility and distinct composition of eggshells make them a subject of interest in biology, chemistry, and material science.