\( 3 Ca ( NO _ { 3 } ) _ { 2 } \)

The chemical formula you've provided is: \[ 3\, \text{Ca}(\text{NO}_3)_2 \] Let's break down and understand this formula: ### 1. **Component Analysis:** - **Ca:** Represents calcium. - **NO₃:** Represents the nitrate ion. ### 2. **Understanding the Subscript:** - The subscript **2** outside the nitrate group \((\text{NO}_3)_2\) indicates that there are two nitrate ions attached to each calcium ion. - The leading coefficient **3** indicates that there are three formula units of calcium nitrate in the compound. ### 3. **Chemical Interpretation:** - **Single Formula Unit:** \(\text{Ca}(\text{NO}_3)_2\) is calcium nitrate. - **Three Formula Units:** \(3\, \text{Ca}(\text{NO}_3)_2\) means there are three calcium nitrate molecules combined. ### 4. **Molecular Composition:** For \(3\, \text{Ca}(\text{NO}_3)_2\): - **Calcium (Ca):** 3 atoms - **Nitrate (NO₃):** \(3 \times 2 = 6\) nitrate groups - **Nitrogen (N):** 6 atoms - **Oxygen (O):** \(6 \times 3 = 18\) atoms ### 5. **Molar Mass Calculation:** To calculate the molar mass of \(3\, \text{Ca}(\text{NO}_3)_2\), first find the molar mass of a single formula unit \(\text{Ca}(\text{NO}_3)_2\) and then multiply by 3. - **Calcium (Ca):** ~40.08 g/mol - **Nitrogen (N):** ~14.01 g/mol × 2 = 28.02 g/mol - **Oxygen (O):** ~16.00 g/mol × 6 = 96.00 g/mol **Molar Mass of \(\text{Ca}(\text{NO}_3)_2\):** \[ 40.08\, \text{g/mol} + 28.02\, \text{g/mol} + 96.00\, \text{g/mol} = 164.10\, \text{g/mol} \] **Molar Mass of \(3\, \text{Ca}(\text{NO}_3)_2\):** \[ 164.10\, \text{g/mol} \times 3 = 492.30\, \text{g/mol} \] ### 6. **Uses of Calcium Nitrate:** Calcium nitrate is commonly used in: - **Agriculture:** As a fertilizer providing calcium and nitrogen. - **Construction:** In concrete to enhance strength and durability. - **Environmental Applications:** For wastewater treatment and controlling algae growth in water bodies. - **Food Industry:** As a preservative and acidity regulator. ### 7. **Chemical Reactions Involving Calcium Nitrate:** Calcium nitrate can participate in various chemical reactions, such as: - **Decomposition upon Heating:** \[ \text{Ca(NO}_3)_2 \rightarrow \text{CaO} + 2\, \text{NO}_2 + \frac{1}{2}\, \text{O}_2 \] This reaction produces calcium oxide, nitrogen dioxide, and oxygen. - **Double Replacement Reaction:** \[ \text{Ca(NO}_3)_2 + \text{BaCl}_2 \rightarrow \text{CaCl}_2 + \text{Ba(NO}_3)_2 \] This reaction exchanges the cations to form calcium chloride and barium nitrate. ### 8. **Safety Considerations:** While calcium nitrate is useful, it should be handled with care: - **Irritant:** Can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. - **Storage:** Keep in a cool, dry place away from incompatible substances like combustible materials. ### 9. **Summary:** The formula \(3\, \text{Ca}(\text{NO}_3)_2\) represents three units of calcium nitrate, totaling three calcium ions and six nitrate ions. It's a versatile compound with applications across various industries, particularly in agriculture and construction. If you have a specific question or need further information about this compound, feel free to ask!