Copper(II) carbonate
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Copper(II) carbonate | |
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| Systematic name | Copper(II) carbonate |
| Other names | copper carbonate, cupric carbonate, basic copper carbonate |
| Molecular formula | CuCO3 |
| Molar mass | 221.11 g/mol |
| CAS number | 12069-69-1 |
| Density | 3.9 g/cm3 |
| Solubility (water) | Insoluble in water |
| Melting point | 200°C |
| Boiling point | None Applicable |
| Disclaimer and references | |
Copper(II) carbonate (often called copper carbonate or cupric carbonate) is a blue-green compound (chemical formula CuCO3) forming most of the patina one sees on weathered brass, bronze, and copper. The colour can vary from bright blue to green, because there may be a mixture of both copper carbonate and basic copper carbonate in various stages of hydration. It was formerly much used as a pigment, and is still in use for artist's colours. It has also been used in some types of make-up, like lipstick, although it can also be poisonous to humans. It also has been used for many years as an effective algaecide in farm ponds and in aquaculture operations.
"Copper in moist air slowly acquires a dull green coating. The green material is a 1:1 mole mixture of Cu(OH)2 and CuCO3:[1]"
2Cu(s) + H2O(g) + CO2 ---> Cu(OH)2 + CuCO3(s)
Copper carbonate decomposes at high temperatures, giving off carbon dioxide and leaving copper(II) oxide.
CuCO3(s) ---> CuO(s) + CO2(g)
Basic copper(II) carbonate occurs naturally as malachite (CuCO3.Cu(OH)2) and azurite (Cu3(CO3)2(OH)2).
[edit] Precautions
Copper carbonate is an eye irritant. It may be harmful when inhaled or swallowed. Wear safety glasses when handling copper carbonate.
If inhaled or swallowed, drink one-half to one cup of milk or water. Do not induce vomiting
Consult a doctor immediately.
