Calcium permanganate

Chemical compound

Calcium permanganate crystals

Calcium permanganate is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Ca(MnO_)_. It is a salt consisting of calcium cations (Ca__) and permanganate anions (MnO__). This compound is known for its strong oxidizing properties and is used in various applications, including water treatment and as a disinfectant.

Chemical properties

Calcium permanganate is a purple crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water. It is a powerful oxidizing agent, which means it can readily accept electrons from other substances. This property makes it useful in redox reactions where it can oxidize other compounds.

Preparation

Calcium permanganate can be prepared by the reaction of potassium permanganate with calcium chloride in an aqueous solution. The reaction proceeds as follows:

<math>2 KMnO_ + CaCl_ _ Ca(MnO_)_ + 2 KCl</math>

This reaction results in the formation of calcium permanganate and potassium chloride as a byproduct.

Applications

Calcium permanganate is used in several applications due to its oxidizing properties:

• Water treatment: It is used to remove iron and manganese from water supplies, as well as to control taste and odor problems.
• Disinfectant: It is employed as a disinfectant in various settings, including swimming pools and wastewater treatment plants.
• Organic synthesis: In organic chemistry, calcium permanganate is used as an oxidizing agent in the synthesis of various organic compounds.

Safety

As a strong oxidizer, calcium permanganate must be handled with care. It can react violently with reducing agents, organic materials, and combustible substances. Proper safety precautions should be taken to prevent accidental ignition or explosion.

Related pages

• Potassium permanganate
• Oxidizing agent
• Redox reaction
• Water treatment