What are the uses of calcium hydroxide?

Calcium hydroxide is a white powder which does not have any characteristic odour. It is used in industrial settings such as the treatment of waste, the manufacturing of paper, building and processing of food. There are also several medical and dental applications of this compound. For instance, fillings used in root canal treatments often contain calcium hydroxide.

Is calcium hydroxide acidic or basic?

Calcium hydroxide, also known as slaked lime (with the chemical formula Ca(OH)2) is a source of hydroxide ions when dissolved in aqueous solutions. Therefore, this compound is a base. Due to electrolyte dissociation, this compound liberates OH- ions.

How can calcium hydroxide be prepared?

Calcium hydroxide is formed by the action of water on calcium oxide, also called slaked lime, Ca(OH)2. A small proportion of it dissolves when combined with water, forming a solution known as limewater, the remainder remaining in a suspension called lime milk.