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What is the main chemical compound that causes scaling?

A) sodium bicarbonate
B) calcium bicarbonate
C) hydrogen chloride
D) calcium peroxide

User Eric Lilja
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Final answer:

Calcium bicarbonate is the chemical compound primarily responsible for causing scaling, which precipitates as insoluble calcium carbonate upon heating.

Step-by-step explanation:

The main chemical compound that causes scaling is calcium bicarbonate (Ca(HCO3)2). When heated, calcium bicarbonate decomposes into calcium carbonate (CaCO3), which is relatively insoluble and precipitates out, forming scale. This scaling can affect plumbing systems, boilers, and various industrial applications. It's notable that substances like sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), also known as baking soda, do not contribute to this type of scaling.

User Spets
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