Method to distinguish SiO2 and CaCO3

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around distinguishing between silicon dioxide (SiO2) and calcium carbonate (CaCO3), focusing on their chemical properties and reactions. Participants explore various options related to a homework question, expressing confusion about the correct answers and the reasoning behind them.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant selected option D based on the acidic nature of SiO2 compared to the neutral nature of CaCO3 but found the correct answer to be C, expressing doubts about options A and B.
  • Another participant questioned the dissolution of SiO2 in a base and in water, implying that its solubility is relevant to the discussion.
  • A later reply emphasized the difference between roasting and gentle heating, suggesting that these methods may yield different results for the compounds in question.
  • One participant was prompted to check melting points and properties of the compounds, indicating that understanding these properties is essential for distinguishing between SiO2 and CaCO3.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express confusion and uncertainty regarding the correct answers to the homework question, with no consensus reached on the validity of the options presented.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference the need for basic knowledge of the properties of SiO2 and CaCO3, indicating that assumptions about their chemical behavior may not be universally understood.

Janiceleong26
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Homework Statement


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I chose D, because since SiO2 is an acidic oxide whereas CaCO3 is neutral. But the correct answer is C. And i have doubts on option A and B too.. I can't seem to see why are they not right.. For A, I thought a neutralisarion reaction will happen with SiO2? And for B, I thought CaCO3 decomposes? Please help, thanks
 
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Have you ever tried to dissolve SiO2 in a base? Have you ever tried to dissolve it in water?

Roasting and gentle heating are two different things.
 
Borek said:
Have you ever tried to dissolve SiO2 in a base? Have you ever tried to dissolve it in water?

Roasting and gentle heating are two different things.

No, I haven't..

I see, so if we were to gentle heat them, do they melt?
 
That was a rhetoric question. You are expected to know some basic properties of the substances from the curriculum.

Check melting points in wikipedia. Actually the best thing you can do is to read about properties of both compounds in some textbook.
 
Borek said:
That was a rhetoric question. You are expected to know some basic properties of the substances from the curriculum.

Check melting points in wikipedia. Actually the best thing you can do is to read about properties of both compounds in some textbook.
Ok thanks
 

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