When gypsum is heated at 373 K, it loses water molecules and transforms into calcium sulfate hemihydrate, also known as “Plaster of Paris.”
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When gypsum (calcium sulfate dihydrate, CaSO₄⋅2H₂O) is heated at 373 K (100°C), it undergoes a process known as calcination. During calcination, gypsum loses water molecules and transforms into calcium sulfate hemihydrate, commonly known as Plaster of Paris (CaSO₄⋅0.5H₂O):
CaSO₄⋅2H₂O 373K/heat⟶ CaSO₄⋅0.5H₂O+ 1.5H₂O
The produced Plaster of Paris has reduced water content, making it suitable for various applications like casting, molding, and setting broken bones in the medical field due to its ability to harden quickly when mixed with water.