Calcium Carbide, Formula, Uses, Structure, Health Impacts

Q: What happens when calcium carbide is mixed with water?

When calcium carbide is mixed with water, it reacts vigorously to produce acetylene gas (C₂H₂) and calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂).

Q: How calcium carbide is manufactured?

It is manufactured by heating a lime and carbon mixture to 2000 to 2100°C (3632 to 3812°F) in an electric arc furnace.

Table of Contents☰

Calcium Carbide Latest News

More than 60 people, primarily children, were hospitalized in Bhopal following severe injuries sustained from the use of makeshift “calcium carbide guns” during Diwali celebrations.

About Calcium Carbide

It is a compound with the chemical formula CaC2.
It is commonly referred to as ‘masala’ in fruit markets.
It is a grayish-black lump or crystalline powder with a garlic-like odor.
It is manufactured by heating a lime and carbon mixture to 2000 to 2100°C (3632 to 3812°F) in an electric arc furnace.

Calcium Carbide Uses

It is primarily known for its use in the production of acetylene gas through hydrolysis.
Calcium carbide reacts vigorously with water to produce acetylene gas. Acetylene is a colourless, odourless, extremely flammable gas.
It is used as a reducing agent and in steel manufacturing and metal cutting.
Several countries use calcium carbide as an artificial ripening agent.

Calcium Carbide Health Impacts

It can cause serious health issues such as dizziness, frequent thirst, irritation, weakness, difficulty in swallowing, vomiting, skin ulcers, etc.
Additionally, acetylene gas is equally hazardous to those handling it.
There are chances that calcium carbide may come in direct contact with fruits during application and leave residues of arsenic and phosphorus on fruits.
It is banned under the Prevention of Food Adulteration Rules, 1955, and also under the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011, made thereunder.