The reaction of calcium with water is less violent compared to potassium and sodium. While it also produces metal hydroxide and hydrogen gas, the heat evolved is not sufficient for the hydrogen to catch fire.
How does the reaction of calcium with water differ from that of potassium and sodium?
Share
Calcium reacts less vigorously than potassium and sodium. The reaction is also less exothermic, producing a moderate amount of heat. The balanced chemical equation for the reaction of calcium (Ca) with water is:
2Ca(s) + 2H₂O(l) → 2Ca(OH)₂(aq) + H₂(g)
Unlike the alkali metals, calcium does not produce a visible flame during the reaction. Additionally, calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂) is sparingly soluble in water and forms a white precipitate, leading to the formation of a cloudy solution. Overall, the reactivity of calcium with water is intermediate between the highly reactive alkali metals and less reactive metals.